These Amish-style refrigerator pickles are easy to make, requiring just cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, and spices. No boiling, no complicated steps—just slice, mix, and chill for a refreshing homemade treat. Perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or straight from the jar!
Equipment
✔ Large mixing bowl
✔ Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
✔ Measuring cups and spoons
✔ Large glass jar or airtight container
Ingredients
•6 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (about 4 medium cucumbers)
•1 medium onion, thinly sliced
•1 ½ cups white vinegar
•1 cup granulated sugar
•1 tbsp salt
•1 tsp celery seed
•1 tsp mustard seed
•½ tsp black peppercorns
•½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•½ cup water
Instructions
1️⃣ Slice the cucumbers and onions and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2️⃣ Prepare the brine: In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, salt, celery seed, mustard seed, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, garlic, and water until the sugar and salt dissolve.
3️⃣ Combine everything: Pour the brine over the cucumbers and onions, tossing to coat evenly.
4️⃣ Pack into jars: Transfer the mixture into clean glass jars or an airtight container, ensuring the cucumbers are fully submerged in the brine.
5️⃣ Refrigerate: Cover and chill for at least 24 hours before eating. For best flavor, let them sit for 3-5 days.
6️⃣ Enjoy: Serve these crisp, tangy pickles as a side dish, sandwich topping, or snack straight from the jar!
Storage Options
•Refrigerate: Store pickles in a sealed jar for up to 3 weeks.
•Do not freeze: Freezing will affect the texture and make them mushy.
•Flavor tip: The longer they sit, the better they taste!
Notes
✔ Use fresh cucumbers for the crispiest pickles. Pickling cucumbers work best!
✔ Want it less sweet? Reduce the sugar to ½ cup.
✔ Spicy variation: Add extra red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
✔ For a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove or two.
These Authentic Amish Refrigerator Pickles are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crisp—once you try them, you’ll never go back to store-bought pickles! 🥒✨