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Homemade Claussen pickles in a jar, showcasing their crunchy texture and vibrant colors.
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Homemade Claussen Pickles

A simple recipe for crunchy, tangy Homemade Claussen Pickles that can brighten any meal and nostalgia of summer picnics.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Side, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cucumber recipes, easy pickling, Homemade Claussen Pickles, pickles, refrigerator pickles
Servings: 16 pickles
Calories: 7kcal

Ingredients

Brine Ingredients

  • 1 cup white vinegar Provides the classic tanginess.
  • 2 tbsp pickling salt Essential for flavor balance.
  • 2 cups water Helps balance the brine.
  • 1 tbsp sugar Adds a hint of sweetness.

Spices

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes For a hint of heat.
  • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns Rounds out the flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp dill seeds Infuses herbaceous flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed Adds garlicky goodness.
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds Adds flavor and crunch.

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pickling cucumbers Fresh and crisp.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Rinse the cucumbers under cold water and trim the ends. Cut them into spears, chips, or leave them whole.
  • In a saucepan, combine the water, white vinegar, sugar, and pickling salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
  • Remove from heat and add the smashed garlic, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, dill seeds, and black peppercorns. Stir and let rest for about 5 minutes.
  • Pack clean glass jars tightly with cucumbers.
  • Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are submerged. Leave half an inch of space at the top.
  • Seal jars tightly and cool to room temperature.
  • Refrigerate the jars. Best flavor develops after 3 to 5 days.

Notes

Choose fresh pickling cucumbers for best texture and consider customizing spices to your taste. Make sure jars are sterilized and let them cool slowly.