Amish Sweet Pickles: how to make quick pickle recipe

Jump to Recipe

Amish Sweet Pickle recipe – Welcome to the world of homemade goodness with our irresistible Amish sweet pickle recipe! Bursting with sweet, tangy flavors and boasting a satisfying crunch, these quick pickles are a true delight for your taste buds. Indulge in the world of homemade refrigerator pickles – crunchy, sweet, and oh-so-easy to whip up! Elevate your burger game by loading them with my quick pickled cucumbers or munch away on these addictive snacks with a burst of flavor in every bite.

Best part? No need for canning expertise with this hassle-free sweet pickle recipe! Let’s dive into pickle paradise and savor the simplicity and deliciousness of homemade goodness with one of my favorite recipes! Made with love and passed down through generations, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Amish culinary heritage while offering a modern twist that’s easy to recreate in your own kitchen.

Delicious quick pickled cucumbers

Picture crisp, fresh cucumbers delicately sliced and bathed in a mouthwatering blend of cider vinegar, sugar, and aromatic spices. Each bite delivers a symphony of quick pickled cucumbers flavors, with the sweetness of sugar harmonizing perfectly with the tang of vinegar and the subtle hint of spices. It’s a culinary masterpiece that’s as comforting as it is delicious, evoking memories of sunny days and bountiful harvests.

With just a few simple ingredients, a little bit of work (very little, you don’t even need to do a water bath canner) you can bottle the taste of summer. It’s the perfect way to enjoy crisp pickles with the complex flavor of sour pickles and sweet flavors of summer any time of year. One of the best things about this simple recipe for delicious pickles is how great it is for long-term storage. You can enjoy homemade pickles with veggie burgers even in winter that will get a 5-star rating every time. 

Amish Sweet Pickles: tasty refrigerator pickle recipe

But what truly sets these Amish sweet pickles apart is their simplicity and ease of preparation. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these delectable pickles in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible flavor and foolproof method.

My aunt Annie made this original recipe every year and they are still the best pickles I’ve ever tried. That’s why I affectionately call this Annie’s sweet amish pickles. Although my aunt Annie wasn’t much of a cook (Annie’s recipes collection featured mostly canned recipes otherwise everything was reheated microwave meals) from all of Annies recipes sweet amish pickles we’re the best.

This easy sweet pickle recipe is great for special occasions and everyday life. There’s no better way to enhance your burger or dinner plate than with the delicious sour flavor of crispy uniform slices of pickled cucumbers.

So why settle for store-bought pickles when you can create your own gourmet treats at home? Whether enjoyed straight from the jar as a satisfying snack or paired with your favorite sandwiches and salads, these Amish sweet pickles are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and savor the simple pleasures of homemade goodness with every crunchy bite!

If you’re ready, let’s dive into the world of Amish sweet pickles, with their delicious flavor, ease of preparation and versatility.

Tip: for extra quick pickles, slice the cucumbers in fine even slices. For 7 day pickles, use small baby cucumbers and leave them whole for extra crunchy deliciousness! Enjoy making and sharing these irresistible treats with family and friends!

In this Amish sweet pickle recipe we’re covering 

• What are Amish pickles 
• Do pickles have probiotics 
• How long does it take for cucumbers to pickle 
• Equipment needed to make sweet refrigerator pickles 
• Ingredients for making refrigerator sweet pickles apple cider vinegar
• Amish sweet pickle recipe 
• How to make cucumber pickle 
• How to make refrigerator sweet pickles recipe small batch guide 
• Amish refrigerator pickles tips and tricks 
• Amish 7 day pickles flavor variations 
• How to eat Seven day pickles 
• How to store sweet refrigerator pickles 
• Amish Sweet pickles FAQ

Reasons to Make Refrigerator Pickles:

    1.    Easy Preparation: Crafting these Amish-style refrigerator pickles is a breeze compared to traditional canning methods. No need for special equipment or ingredients—just simple steps and basic kitchen tools.

    2.    Utilize Excess Produce: Got a surplus of cucumbers or other veggies? Refrigerator pickles offer a convenient solution for preserving small batches of produce, preventing waste, and extending their shelf life.

    3.    Minimal Prep: Forget about lengthy canning processes—refrigerator pickles require minimal prep work. Simply slice your veggies, prepare the brine, and let the refrigerator do the rest. It’s hassle-free and perfect for busy schedules. This easy sweet pickle recipe has been a family favorites for generations. 

    4.    Versatile Flavor: These sweet and tangy pickles are a versatile addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed as a crunchy snack or paired with your favorite dishes, they add a tasty fresh burst of flavor. For a tasty variety, consider serving alongside refrigerator-pickled beets for a colorful and flavorful combination.

What are Amish pickles 

Ah, Amish sweet cucumber pickles, where do I begin? Picture crisp, tangy cucumber slices bathed in a sweet and savory brine that’s been perfected through generations of Amish tradition. These pickles are a delightful combination of sweet and sour, with just the right amount of crunch in every bite.

What makes Amish sweet cucumber pickles so special? It’s all about the ingredients and the process. Amish recipes are known for their simplicity and wholesome flavors, and these pickles are no exception. Fresh cucumbers are sliced thinly and soaked in a brine made from vinegar, sugar, spices, and sometimes a hint of garlic or onion.

The magic happens as the cucumbers marinate in the brine, absorbing all those delicious flavors and transforming into crunchy, sweet-and-sour delights. The result? A jar of pickles that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for snacking, topping sandwiches, or serving alongside your favorite summer meals.

One of the best things about Amish sweet cucumber pickles is their versatility. They’re great on their own as a snack, but they also add a delightful tangy sweetness to salads, sandwiches, and even grilled meats. Plus, they make a lovely homemade gift that’s sure to be appreciated by friends and family.

So, whether you’re a pickle aficionado or just looking to add a little homemade goodness to your pantry, Amish sweet cucumber pickles are a must-try. With their irresistible flavor and charming simplicity, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Sweet refrigerator pickles 

The origins of refrigerator pickles trace back to a time when refrigeration was a luxury. In the days of our ancestors, before the advent of modern refrigerators, households relied on ice boxes to keep perishables cool. Back then, what we now call “refrigerator pickles” were known as “ice box pickles.” However, as the ice box became a relic of the past, the term evolved to better suit the times.

Enter the Amish Refrigerator Pickles—a recipe deeply rooted in tradition and heritage. Adapted from the culinary practices of Amish and Mennonite communities, these pickles carry the essence of generations past. Sweet, tangy, and wonderfully simple, they encapsulate the flavors of Amish cuisine.

Despite the passage of time, the charm of these pickles endures, thanks to their timeless appeal and straightforward preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can recreate the magic of Amish Refrigerator Pickles in your own kitchen, connecting with a culinary tradition that spans generations.

Do pickles have probiotics 

Pickles that have undergone fermentation do indeed contain probiotics. During the fermentation process, beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus convert sugars into lactic acid, which acts as a natural preservative and imparts tanginess to the pickles. These beneficial bacteria can support gut health by promoting a balanced microbiome and aiding digestion. However, not all pickles contain probiotics. Pickles that have been pasteurized or processed using vinegar do not contain live probiotic cultures, as the heat destroys the beneficial bacteria. To ensure you’re getting probiotic-rich pickles, look for varieties that have been fermented using traditional methods.

How long does it take for cucumbers to pickle 

The time it takes for cucumbers to pickle depends on several factors, including the method of pickling, the size and thickness of the cucumbers, and personal preference for taste and texture. Generally, cucumbers can start to develop a pickled flavor within a few hours to a few days of being immersed in a pickling solution. For this easy recipe the cucumbers are lightly pickled after 1 day and completely pickled after 3-7 days, hence the name seven day pickles.

Tip: for extra quick pickles, slice the cucumbers in fine even slices. For 7 day pickles, use small baby cucumbers and leave them whole for extra crunchy deliciousness!

However, for a fully developed pickle flavor and texture, it typically takes anywhere from several days to a few weeks. For traditional fermented pickles, the process can take several weeks as the cucumbers undergo fermentation to develop their tangy flavor and crunchy texture. Refrigerator pickles, on the other hand, can be ready to eat in as little as 24 hours, though they may continue to improve in flavor over time. Ultimately, the ideal pickling time varies depending on individual preferences, so it’s best to taste-test the pickles periodically until they reach the desired flavor and texture.

Equipment needed to make sweet refrigerator pickles 

To make this easy quick pickled cucumber recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Mason jars, pickle jars, or other glass jars with tight-fitting lids: These will be used for canning pickles as well as to store the crunchy pickles and keep them fresh in the refrigerator.

2. Cutting board and knife: For slicing cucumbers and any other vegetables or ingredients you’ll be adding to the pickles.

3. Saucepan: To heat and prepare the pickling brine. A hot brine is necessary for this easy canning method. It’s the secret to crispy pickles without the need for long processing time or a hot water bath canner. 

4. Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure out the ingredients for the brine.

5. Mixing spoon or whisk: For stirring the pickling brine until the sugar and salt are dissolved.

6. Funnel (optional): To help transfer the pickling brine into the jars without making a mess. It makes the canning process much simpler, and helps avoid spillage when filling to the top of the jar.

7. Clean dish towels or paper towels: To wipe the rims of the jars before sealing them to ensure a tight seal.

8. Refrigerator: To store the jars of pickles and allow them to chill and marinate for the recommended time.

That’s all you need to make delicious refrigerator pickles at home! It’s a simple and straightforward process that requires minimal equipment.

Ingredients for making refrigerator sweet pickles apple cider vinegar

Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey with our Amish sweet pickle recipe! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting these delectable treats. From the crisp crunch of small cucumbers to the tangy zip of cider vinegar, every element contributes to the irresistible taste of these homemade delights. Let’s dive into the world of pickling magic with our essential ingredients list!

    1.    Small cucumbers: These crunchy cucumbers are the star of the show, providing the base for your sweet pickles. Choose firm, fresh cucumbers for the best results. Baby cucumbers, small seedless cucumber, or your preferred kind of cucumbers should all work well. Whether you are using your own garden cucumbers or getting fresh farmers market produce, aim for firm cucumbers to avoid mushy pickles. 

    2.    Finely diced onion: Adding onion to your pickles provides a savory depth of flavor and adds texture to the final product. You can use any type of onions you prefer like white onions, yellow onions, green onions, or red onions. 

Pickle Brine ingredients

    3.    Cider vinegar: The acidity of cider vinegar helps to preserve the pickles and gives them a tangy flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even apple cider vinegar to make the vinegar brine for this quick pickle recipe. 

    4.    Sugar: Sweetness is essential in Amish sweet pickles, and sugar provides the perfect balance to the tangy vinegar and savory spices.

    5.    Water: Water is used to dilute the vinegar and sugar mixture, ensuring the pickling brine has the right consistency.

    6.    Kosher salt: Salt is a crucial ingredient in pickling, as it helps to draw moisture out of the cucumbers and infuse them with flavor.

    7.    Celery salt (optional): Celery salt adds a subtle herbal note to the pickles and enhances their overall flavor. It’s optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of taste.

These ingredients come together to create a tasty batch of Amish sweet pickles that are sure to impress your taste buds!

Amish sweet pickle recipe 

Discover the simplicity of homemade Amish Refrigerator Pickles with this easy recipe. Adapted from a cherished Amish tradition, these pickles require just a few basic ingredients. Sweet, tangy, and wonderfully crisp, they offer a delightful way to preserve a small harvest of cucumbers. Enjoy the timeless flavors of Amish cuisine with this effortless pickle recipe, perfect for adding a touch of homemade goodness to your table.

Amish sweet pickle recipe ingredients:

• 6-8 small cucumbers
• 1/2 finely diced onion 
• 1 cup (240 ml) cider vinegar
• 1 cup (200 grams) sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
• 1 tablespoon (17 grams) kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon (6 grams) celery salt (optional)

How to make cucumber pickle Instructions:

    1.    Clean Jars: Begin by washing your jars thoroughly in hot, soapy water. Whether you’re using pint-sized or quart-sized jars, ensuring they’re clean is essential for safe pickling. After washing, you can soak the pint jars in boiling water for a few minutes to get 100% sterilized jars that will preserve the delicious tastes and be safe for personal consumption.

    2.    Prepare Brine: In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar. Stir the sour brine mixture continuously until the sugar and salt completely dissolve, creating a smooth brine base for your pickles.

    3.    Flavor Infusion: After removing the brine from heat, stir in the celery salt if desired. Set the seasoned brine aside to cool slightly while you prepare the cucumbers and onions.

    4.    Prepare Cucumbers: Wash cucumbers well. Slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds, ensuring uniform thickness for even pickling. You can use a mandoline slicer to get even thin slices of cucumber. Finely dice the onion to complement the pickle slices. Tip: for extra quick pickles, slice the cucumbers in fine even slices. For 7 day pickles, use small baby cucumbers and leave them whole for extra crunchy deliciousness!

    5.    Jar Packing: Pack the sliced cucumbers and diced onion snugly into clean canning jars, maximizing space for optimal pickling.

    6.    Brine Pouring: Carefully pour the warm pickling brine into the packed mason jars, ensuring all cucumber slices and onion pieces are fully submerged. Seal jars tightly to lock in flavor.

    7.    Refrigerate and Infuse: Place the sealed jars of pickles in the refrigerator and allow them to marinate overnight. This extended chilling time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in deliciously infused pickles ready to enjoy the next day. Bon appétit!

How to make refrigerator sweet pickles recipe small batch guide 

To make a small batch of refrigerator sweet pickles, you can adjust the recipe as follows:

Small Batch Amish Sweet Pickle Recipe Ingredients:

• 3-4 small cucumbers
• 1/4 finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
• 1/2 tablespoon (8.5 grams) kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) celery salt (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional)

How to make refrigerator sweet pickles recipe small batch Instructions:

1. Clean Jars: Begin by washing a small number of jars thoroughly in hot, soapy water. Ensure they’re clean for safe pickling.

2. Prepare Brine: In a large pot or saucepan over medium heat, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar and salt dissolve completely, creating a smooth brine base.

3. Flavor Infusion: After removing the brine from heat, stir in the optional celery salt if desired. Set the seasoned brine aside to cool slightly while preparing the cucumbers and onions.

4. Prepare Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into ¼-inch rounds, maintaining uniform thickness for even pickling. Finely dice the onion to complement the pickle slices. Tip: for extra quick pickles, slice the cucumbers in fine even slices. For 7 day pickles, use small baby cucumbers and leave them whole for extra crunchy deliciousness!

5. Jar Packing: Pack the sliced cucumbers and diced onion snugly into the clean jars, maximizing space for optimal pickling.

6. Brine Pouring: Carefully pour the warm pickling brine into the packed jars, ensuring all cucumber slices and onion pieces are fully submerged. Seal the jars tightly to lock in flavor.

7. Refrigerate and Infuse: Place the sealed jars of pickles in the refrigerator and allow them to marinate overnight. This extended chilling time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in deliciously infused pickles ready to enjoy the next day. Bon appétit!

Amish refrigerator pickles tips and tricks: quick pickled cucumber recipe hacks

Choose firm, recently harvested pickling cucumbers

Pickling cucumbers, also known as gherkins, are ideal for making pickles due to their crisp texture and smaller size. Look for cucumbers that are short and thin-skinned, as they absorb the pickling flavors better. Avoid using waxed cucumbers commonly found in grocery stores, as the wax can create a barrier that prevents the pickling brine from fully penetrating the cucumber. Opting for unwaxed cucumbers ensures that your pickles will be infused with maximum flavor and retain their crispness.

Cucumber pickling Tip:

For extra quick pickles, slice the cucumbers in fine even slices. For 7 day pickles, use small baby cucumbers and leave them whole for extra crunchy deliciousness!

Opt for pickling salt

When making pickles, it’s best to use pickling salt instead of table salt. Table salt often contains iodine and anti-caking agents, which can lead to darkened pickles and cloudy brine. Pickling salt, also known as canning salt, is free of these additives, ensuring that your pickles maintain their vibrant color and clarity. By choosing pickling salt, you’ll achieve pickles with superior flavor and appearance.

Opt for vinegar with a minimum of 5% acidity

When selecting vinegar for pickling, aim for a variety with at least 5% acidity to ensure proper preservation. Apple cider vinegar, derived from fermented apples, lends a subtle sweetness to your pickles, though it may cause slight darkening. Alternatively, white vinegar, distilled from corn and rye, offers a clear base for pickling. Opt for an organic brand to avoid genetically modified corn and ensure a purer product. By choosing the right vinegar, you’ll enhance the flavor and quality of your pickles while avoiding unwanted additives.

Amish 7 day pickles flavor variations 

Here are some delicious homemade pickle flavor variations you can try:

1. Garlic Dill Pickles: Add a sliced clove of garlic and fresh dill to the brine for a classic and flavorful combination. Garlic cloves and crunchy dill pickles are a match made in heaven. You can easily turn this homemade pickles recipe into a dill pickle recipe by adding fresh dill and lots of garlic cloves. Homemade dill pickles are so good!

2. Spicy Pickles: Add sliced jalapenos, hot peppers or red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the brine for an extra kick of heat.

3. Bread and Butter Pickles: Sweeten the brine with brown sugar, and add sliced onions and mustard seeds for a tangy and sweet flavor profile. Mustard seed pickles is a classic for a reason.  

4. Sweet and Tangy Pickles: Use apple cider vinegar and honey in the brine, and add slices of orange or lemon for a bright and refreshing twist.

5. Asian-Inspired Pickles: Infuse the brine with soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic for a savory and aromatic flavor profile.

6. Mediterranean Pickles: Add oregano, thyme, rosemary, diced green peppers or red peppers, and olives to the brine for a taste of the Mediterranean.

More delicious homemade pickles flavorings

7. Pickled Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables like carrots, radishes, cauliflower, or green beans for a colorful and diverse pickle mix.

8. Sweet and Spicy Pickles: Combine brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and mustard seeds in the brine for a perfect balance of sweet and heat.

9. Pickled Fruits: Try pickling fruits like watermelon rinds, mangoes, or strawberries for a unique and refreshing twist on traditional pickles.

10. Smoky Pickles: Add smoked paprika or chipotle peppers to the brine for a bold and smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to get creative and experiment with different herbs, spices, and flavorings to create your own unique homemade pickle recipes!

How to eat Seven day pickles 

Seven-day pickles, also known as fermented pickles, are delicious and versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:

1. Straight from the jar: Enjoy them as a tangy and crunchy snack right out of the jar. It’s a tasty way to enjoy these delicious crunchy snack cucumbers. 

2. Sandwich topping: Add slices of seven-day pickles to your favorite sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor and crunch. For extra points, make the sandwiches with Amish bread for the full Amish cooking experience.

3. Charcuterie board: Serve sliced seven-day pickles alongside cheeses, vegan meats, crackers, and olives for a flavorful addition to your charcuterie spread.

4. Salad ingredient: Chop seven-day pickles and add them to salads for a tangy twist.

5. Relish: Finely chop seven-day pickles and mix them with chopped onions, mustard, and vinegar to make a delicious relish for hot dogs and burgers.

6. Potato salad: Add chopped seven-day pickles to your favorite potato salad recipe for added flavor and texture.

7. Deviled eggs: Garnish deviled eggs with sliced seven-day pickles for a unique and tasty appetizer.

8. Salsa or chickpea salad: Mix chopped seven-day pickles into salsa or chickpea salad for added flavor and crunch.

9. Bloody Mary garnish: Use whole or sliced seven-day pickles as a garnish for Bloody Mary cocktails for a tangy and flavorful addition.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to enjoying seven-day pickles!

How to store sweet refrigerator pickles 

Storing sweet refrigerator pickles is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

1. Transfer the pickles to clean, airtight containers: Once the pickles have marinated in the refrigerator and reached your desired flavor, transfer them from the jars you used for pickling into clean, airtight containers. This helps to prolong their freshness and flavor.

2. Ensure the pickles are fully submerged: Make sure that the pickles are fully submerged in the pickling liquid or brine in the container. This helps to preserve their texture and flavor evenly.

3. Seal the containers tightly: Ensure that the lids of the containers are sealed tightly to prevent air from entering and spoiling the pickles. This helps to maintain their freshness for a longer period.

4. Store in the refrigerator: Place the sealed containers of sweet refrigerator pickles in the refrigerator. They should be stored in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the bottom shelf or crisper drawer, to keep them chilled and fresh. This should keep the sweet pickles recipe good throughout the winter months.

5. Consume within a few weeks: Sweet refrigerator pickles are best consumed within a few weeks of making them for optimal flavor and texture. Enjoy them as a tasty snack, condiment, or accompaniment to your favorite dishes!

By following these simple steps, you can store your sweet refrigerator pickles properly and enjoy their delicious flavor for weeks to come.

What I’ve been making lately

• Easy Vegan Empanadas (Best vegetarian bean recipe)
• Best tofu scramble: vegan breakfast scrambled eggs
• Easy guacamole salsa recipe (Best avocado Guac salsa)
• Best Apple Pie: perfect award winning caramel recipe
• Easy Red Lentil Dal (Best vegan curry Dahl recipe)

Amish Sweet pickles FAQ

What to eat with Homemade pickles

• Vegan Bean Spread (easy vegan pate)
• 5 ingredients bean spread
• French Tartines (open faced sandwiches) with 32 toppings
• Vegan Jamaican burger patties
• Vegan burgers
• Vegan chicken nuggets
• Vegan chicken tenders

Bread recipes to go with homemade pickles

• 1-hour focaccia bread
• Multi seed crackers 
• Yeastless naan bread 
• Thyme pancakes 
• Danish rye bread or rye bread chips 

DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY REFRIGERATOR PICKLES RECIPE?

Please leave us a review in the comments below and let us know how it turned out 🙂