Homemade Spicy Bread and Butter Pickles: The Ultimate Crunchy & Tangy Recipe (Wickles Copycat!)
There’s nothing quite like the crisp, tangy, sweet, and spicy crunch of a perfectly made bread and butter pickle. While store-bought options like Wickles have set a high bar, making your own spicy bread and butter pickles from scratch is not only easier than you might imagine but also incredibly rewarding. This recipe guides you to create refrigerator pickles that are bursting with flavor and boast an irresistible crunch that rivals your favorite brands.
My journey to crafting the perfect homemade pickle began with a simple craving for something akin to Wickles Pickles – that ideal balance of heat, sweetness, and a satisfying snap. Initially, I considered taking a shortcut, perhaps doctoring up some store-bought dill pickle chips with extra spices. However, true pickle enthusiasts know that a pickle made from the ground up offers a superior taste and texture. Our first attempt at canning a batch of these bread and butter beauties, while flavorful, resulted in an unfortunate mushy and soft texture. Definitely “No Bueno!” as they say.
This culinary mishap sparked a deep dive into the secrets of keeping pickles exquisitely crispy. Extensive research revealed a surprising, yet effective, trick: the addition of tannins. Tannins are natural compounds found in various plants that act as astringents, helping to firm up the cell walls of cucumbers during the pickling process. Common sources include grape leaves, white oak leaves, and even black tea. For convenience and accessibility, black tea emerged as the easiest and most practical solution, and it truly makes all the difference in achieving that coveted, firm bite.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Spicy Bread and Butter Pickle Recipe
This spicy bread and butter pickle recipe isn’t just simple to follow; it consistently delivers spectacular results. You’ll fall in love with these pickles for several compelling reasons:
- Unbeatable Flavor Profile: Experience a delightful symphony of flavors – a bold kick of spice, a comforting sweetness, and a tangy finish that cleanses the palate. They hit all the right notes!
- Exceptional Crunch: Thanks to the strategic use of tannins and proper preparation techniques, these pickles boast an extra-crispy texture that’s incredibly satisfying with every bite. Say goodbye to soft, limp pickles!
- Versatility: These pickles are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect on sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, as a side with barbecue, or simply enjoyed straight from the jar as a refreshing snack.
- Homemade Satisfaction: There’s immense pride in serving something you’ve made yourself, especially when it tastes this good. You control the ingredients, ensuring quality and freshness.
- Customizable Spice Level: While designed to mimic the beloved Wickles, you can easily adjust the amount of red chili peppers to match your personal preference, from mildly zesty to fiery hot.
Key Ingredients for Crunchy, Spicy Pickles
Crafting the perfect spicy bread and butter pickle relies on a handful of essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. Understanding their purpose will help you achieve outstanding results every time.
- Cucumbers – The foundation of any great pickle! We highly recommend using mini cucumbers (also known as pickling cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers) for this recipe. Their smaller size and naturally firmer flesh contribute significantly to the extra crunch you desire. When selecting, look for firm, bright green cucumbers free from blemishes. For the best texture, slice them into uniform chips or spears, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Pickling Salt – This is non-negotiable for superior pickles. Unlike regular table salt, pickling salt is a fine-grained, pure sodium chloride salt with no anti-caking agents or iodine. These additives in table salt can cause your brining liquid to become murky and cloudy, and even discolor your beautiful green cucumbers. Pickling salt dissolves easily and helps maintain the clear, vibrant appearance of your pickles.
- Seasonings – The heart of the bread and butter flavor profile, elevated with a spicy twist:
- Granulated Sugar: Provides the essential sweetness that balances the vinegar and spice.
- Whole Mustard Seeds: Offer a classic, pungent, and slightly spicy mustard flavor that is characteristic of bread and butter pickles.
- Celery Seeds: Contribute a mild, earthy, and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall complexity.
- Whole Black Peppercorns: Deliver a warm, subtle heat and aromatic depth.
- Turmeric: Primarily used for its vibrant yellow color, which gives the pickles an appealing golden hue. It also adds a very subtle earthy note.
- Garlic Cloves: Essential for a robust, savory undertone that complements the sweet and spicy elements.
- Red Chili Peppers: These are your primary source of heat! Using dried red chili peppers allows for a controlled release of spice into the brine, which intensifies over time. You can adjust the quantity based on your preferred level of spiciness.
- Black Tea – Our secret weapon for superior crunch! The tannins present in black tea help to firm up the cucumbers and prevent them from becoming soft or mushy during the pickling process. You’ll only need a small amount, typically 1/4 teaspoon per jar, to achieve remarkable results without imparting a tea flavor. This is an easy and effective alternative to grape or oak leaves.
- Vinegar – Either cider vinegar or distilled white vinegar will work beautifully. White vinegar offers a sharper, cleaner tang, while cider vinegar provides a slightly fruitier, mellower note. Choose based on your preference.
- Onion – Thinly sliced white onion adds another layer of mild pungency and sweetness to the brine, complementing the cucumbers.
Expert Tips for the Crispiest, Most Flavorful Pickles
- Start with the Freshest Cucumbers: This cannot be stressed enough! The fresher your cucumbers, the crisper your pickles will be. If possible, pick them directly from the garden or buy them from a local farmer’s market on the day you plan to pickle. Avoid any cucumbers that feel soft, squishy, or have blemishes.
- Do NOT Use Table Salt: As mentioned, anti-caking additives and iodine in table salt can turn your beautiful brine cloudy and even affect the color of your cucumbers. Always use pure pickling salt for clear, vibrant pickles.
- The Overnight Soak is Key: Soaking cucumbers in a saltwater brine overnight, combined with ice, is a crucial step to draw out excess moisture. This process helps to firm up the cucumbers before they even hit the pickling liquid, setting the stage for an unparalleled crunch. Aim for at least 12-18 hours.
- Uniform Slicing: Whether you prefer chips or spears, ensure your cucumber slices are uniform in thickness (around 1/4 inch). This allows them to pickle evenly and maintains consistent texture throughout each jar.
- Don’t Overcook the Brine: Bring the brine ingredients to a simmer just until the sugar dissolves. You don’t want to boil it vigorously for an extended period, as this can diminish the fresh flavors of the spices and vinegar.
- Pack Jars Tightly but Carefully: When filling your jars, pack the cucumber slices, onion, garlic, and peppers as tightly as possible without bruising them. A dense pack ensures maximum pickle-to-brine ratio and helps keep the cucumbers submerged.
- Mind the Headspace: Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace (the space between the top of the liquid and the rim of the jar). This is standard practice in pickling to allow for expansion without overflow.
- The Waiting Game: While you can technically eat these refrigerator pickles sooner, their flavor and spice develop significantly over time. For the absolute best results, allow them to sit in the refrigerator for at least 7 days. This period allows the flavors to meld and the spice to penetrate the cucumbers deeply, achieving that desired Wickles-like intensity.
- Experiment with Heat: The recipe calls for a specific number of dried red chili peppers, but feel free to adjust. For a milder pickle, reduce the number of peppers. For an extra kick, add a few more or even a tiny bit of fresh habanero or serrano pepper to each jar (handle with care!).
How to Make Deliciously Spicy Bread and Butter Pickles
Creating these vibrant, crunchy pickles is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. Follow along to make your own batch of refrigerator pickles that are far superior to anything store-bought.
- Prepare the Cucumbers (Overnight Soak): Start by thoroughly washing your cucumbers. Slice them into your desired shape – rounds, chips, or spears. In a large non-reactive bowl (glass, ceramic, or stainless steel), toss the sliced cucumbers with the pickling salt. Ensure every piece is well-coated. Add the ice cubes, then fill the bowl with cold water until the cucumbers are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 12 hours, but preferably around 18 hours. This crucial step draws out excess moisture, contributing significantly to the final crispness. You can learn more about this process in this helpful article.
- Rinse and Drain: The next day, drain the cucumbers thoroughly. Rinse them very well under cold running water to remove excess salt. Taste a small piece; it should be slightly salty but not overwhelmingly so. Drain again completely, pressing gently to remove as much water as possible. Set aside.
- Prepare the Pickling Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the thinly sliced onion, cider vinegar (or distilled white vinegar), granulated sugar, whole mustard seeds, celery seeds, whole black peppercorns, turmeric, peeled garlic cloves, and dried red chili peppers. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved. As soon as the sugar is dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the brine to cool slightly while you prepare your canning jars.
- Prepare the Jars: Ensure your pint-sized canning jars are clean and sterilized. This is especially important for food safety. For each jar, place 1/4 teaspoon of black tea leaves at the bottom. This small addition provides the tannins needed for that extra crunch without imparting a tea flavor.
- Pack the Jars: Begin filling your prepared jars with the drained cucumber slices, distributing the onion, garlic cloves (usually 2 per pint jar), and red chili peppers (about 4 per pint jar) evenly among them. Pack everything as tightly as you can without crushing the cucumbers.
- Add the Brine: Carefully ladle the warm pickling brine into each jar, ensuring all cucumbers are submerged. Leave approximately 1/2 inch of space below the neck of the jar (headspace).
- Seal and Refrigerate: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on tightly, followed by the screw bands. Refrigerate the jars immediately. These are refrigerator pickles, meaning they are not processed in a water bath canner and must be stored in the refrigerator.
- Wait for Flavor Development: Patience is a virtue here! While tempting, resist the urge to eat them right away. It takes approximately 7 days for the flavors to fully meld and the pickles to achieve their desired spiciness, sweetness, and tang. The longer they sit (up to their storage limit), the more intense and delicious they become.
How to Serve Your Homemade Spicy Bread and Butter Pickles
Once your refrigerator spicy bread and butter pickles have had enough time to marinate and develop their exquisite flavors, it’s time to enjoy them! Their vibrant taste and satisfying crunch make them a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Classic Sandwich & Burger Topping: The quintessential use! Pile them high on your favorite sandwiches, subs, or gourmet burgers for an explosion of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavor that cuts through rich meats and cheeses.
- Barbecue Companion: These pickles are a perfect complement to grilled meats, pulled pork, brisket, or smoked chicken. Their acidity and spice offer a wonderful contrast to smoky, savory barbecue flavors.
- Snack Attack: Don’t underestimate their power as a standalone snack. Grab one (or several!) straight from the jar when you’re craving something refreshing and flavorful.
- Elevate Your Salads: Chop them up and toss them into green salads, potato salad, or pasta salad for an unexpected burst of flavor and texture.
- Cheese Board Addition: Pair these pickles with aged cheddar, creamy goat cheese, or sharp blue cheese on a charcuterie or cheese board. Their piquant profile offers a delightful contrast.
- Hot Dog & Sausage Enhancer: Forget plain relish! These spicy bread and butter pickles will transform your hot dogs and sausages into a gourmet experience.
- With Eggs: A surprising but delicious pairing! Dice them finely and add them to scrambled eggs, omelets, or serve alongside a fried egg for a zingy breakfast or brunch.
These crunchy, spicy, sweet, and tangy pickles are guaranteed to become a household favorite. Their homemade quality and adaptable spice level ensure they’ll be a go-to condiment for countless meals.
These refrigerator pickles can be stored in airtight mason jars in the refrigerator for 2-3 months. For optimal crispness and flavor, consume them within 3-4 weeks. Always ensure the pickles are fully submerged in the brine during storage. If any pickle pieces are exposed to air, they may soften or spoil more quickly. These are not intended for long-term shelf-stable canning, as the water bath canning process typically softens pickles.
More Delicious Pickling Recipes to Try
If you’ve enjoyed making these spicy bread and butter pickles, you might be interested in exploring other homemade pickling adventures. Preserving vegetables in vinegar and spices is a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce year-round and add unique flavors to your meals. Here are some other delicious recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds:
- Pickled Jalapeno Peppers: Perfect for adding a zesty kick to nachos, tacos, or chili.
- Pickled Okra: A Southern classic, these crunchy and tangy pods make an excellent snack or garnish.
- Marinated Carrot Sticks: A refreshing and slightly sweet option that’s great for lunchboxes or as a vibrant side dish.
- Healthy Marinated Fresh Vegetable Salad: A light and flavorful salad packed with marinated veggies, perfect for a healthy meal or potluck.
Happy pickling!
Spicy Bread and Butter Pickles Recipe (Wickles Copycat)
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds mini cucumbers (or pickling cucumbers, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds or spears)
- 1 medium white onion, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
- 3 heaping tbsp pickling salt
- 2 cups ice cubes or more (for the overnight soak)
- 3 cups cider vinegar or distilled white vinegar
- 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons whole mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon black tea leaves (divided, 1/4 tsp per pint jar)
- 8 garlic cloves, peeled (about 2 per pint jar)
- 16 dried red chili peppers* (adjust to your spice preference, about 4 per pint jar)
Instructions
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To ensure maximum crunch and draw out excess liquid, slice your cucumbers uniformly and place them in a large non-reactive bowl. Toss the cucumbers thoroughly with the pickling salt, ensuring they are all evenly coated.
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Add plenty of ice cubes to the bowl, then fill with cold water until the cucumbers are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 12-18 hours. This overnight soak is crucial for firming up the cucumbers. After soaking, drain the cucumbers completely. Rinse them very well under cold running water to remove excess salt, then drain again thoroughly.
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In a medium saucepan, combine the thinly sliced onion, vinegar, granulated sugar, whole mustard seeds, celery seeds, whole black peppercorns, turmeric, peeled garlic cloves, and dried red chili peppers. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring consistently until all the sugar has dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat. Set the brine aside to cool slightly while you prepare your canning jars.
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Before packing, ensure your canning jars are clean and sterilized. Place 1/4 teaspoon of black tea leaves (for tannins and crispness) at the bottom of each pint-sized canning jar.
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Carefully fill each of the 4-pint jars with the drained cucumbers, sliced onion, garlic cloves (about 2 per jar), and dried red chili peppers (about 4 per jar). Pack the contents as tightly as possible without crushing the cucumbers.
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Ladle the prepared pickling brine into each jar, ensuring that the cucumbers are fully submerged. Leave approximately 1/2 inch of space between the surface of the liquid and the rim of the jar. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any drips, then securely cover them with lids and screw tops.
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Immediately transfer the sealed jars to the refrigerator. These are refrigerator pickles and are not processed for shelf-stable storage.
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For optimal flavor and spice development, allow the pickles to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 7 days before serving. The waiting period is well worth it!
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For the best taste and texture, consume your homemade spicy bread and butter pickles within 3-4 weeks. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the refrigerator.
Notes
**Nutrition information is an estimate based on a serving size of 10 servings per 1 pint, which equates to 40 servings total for the recipe. Actual nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredient measurements and brands used.