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Homemade Refrigerator Pickles

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A close up shot of Refrigerator Pickles in jars
These tangy refrigerator pickles have plenty of great flavors and are the perfect way to preserve all your spoils from cucumber season, using a simple brine that keeps them fresh in the fridge for up to a month.
Jump to Recipe
Prep Time20 minutes
Total Time3 days 20 minutes
Servings2
Table of Contents
  1. What Are Refrigerator Pickles?
  2. Refrigerator Pickle Recipe ingredients
  3. Fridge Pickles Substitutions And Additions
  4. How To Make Homemade Refrigerator Pickles
  5. How To Serve Spicy Homemade Refrigerator Pickles
  6. How To Store Fridge Pickles
  7. You Will Love These Simple Refrigerator Pickles
  8. Refrigerator Pickles FAQs
  9. More Recipes You’ll Love
  10. JUMP TO RECIPE

Crunchy refrigerator pickles are the best way to make pickles without having to can them, and they last for weeks in the fridge, so you can always have a snack or side dish on hand. These pickles are tangy and sweet, simple to make, and you can customize the flavor to your liking. 

A close up shot of Refrigerator Pickles in jars

What Are Refrigerator Pickles?

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Refrigerator pickles are preserved in vinegar but are not processed using a water bath. They must be stored in the refrigerator, or they will spoil.

Refrigerator Pickle Recipe ingredients

Refrigerator Pickles raw ingredients that are labeled

Refrigerator pickles have a unique taste that is sure to delight anyone’s palate. They have the classic crunchy texture of regular pickles but are slightly sweeter because of the brine solution used for refrigeration.

With a subtle sweetness and an unmistakable tang, refrigerator pickles will add depth and flavor to hamburgers, salads, or sandwiches.

To make this easy recipe, you’ll need:

  • 3 cups of white vinegar
  • 3 cups of granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons of pickling spice
  • 6 dried red chilis, optional
  • 6 sprigs of fresh dill
  • 1 pound of Kirby cucumbers (pickling cucumber), cut into spears, about 4 small cucumbers 
  • 1 cup of sliced yellow onion

PRO TIP:

It is important that you are using the correct type of fresh cucumbers for this easy recipe; otherwise, you will end up with soggy pickles.

Fridge Pickles Substitutions And Additions

CUCUMBERS: If you can’t find pickling cucumbers, you can use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. Each type will slightly alter the texture and flavor, but all will result in delicious pickles.

Additionally, you can try experimenting with other crunchy veggies like zucchini, carrots, or green beans to create a unique blend of refrigerator pickles.

CHILIS: Feel free to leave out the dried red chili or substitute ½ teaspoon of crushed red chili flakes in each jar instead. 

VINEGAR: While white vinegar is commonly used in this recipe, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar for a slightly milder and fruitier taste.

If you prefer a tangier kick, go for red wine vinegar or rice vinegar. Keep in mind that using balsamic vinegar might drastically change the flavor profile, so it’s best to avoid it in this recipe.

GARLIC: Add an extra layer of flavor by including minced shallots or red onions alongside the garlic. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, roast the garlic before adding it to the brine, as it will lend a sweeter and nuttier profile.

DILL: Fresh dill is fantastic, but dried dill works as a worthy substitute. You can also experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to create your own herb-infused pickles.

How To Make Homemade Refrigerator Pickles

Making refrigerator pickles is a great way to infuse your favorite flavors into crunchy cucumbers.

Making them requires nothing more than slicing up the cucumbers, mixing them with salt and other seasonings in an airtight jar, and then covering the mixture with brine.

The mixture needs to sit for a few days for the flavor to infuse, but you can enjoy the finished pickles right away.

You can make a batch of fridge pickles with these easy steps:

STEP ONE: Add the white vinegar, sugar, salt, pickling spice, and red chilis to a medium saucepan.

Bring the ingredients to a simmer, stirring constantly. Let simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the sugar is dissolved completely.

The pickling brine mixture will become clearer once all of the sugar is dissolved.

vinegar, sugar, salt, pickling spice and red chilies mixed in a bowl

STEP TWO: Let the vinegar brine mixture cool completely to room temperature before adding it to the jars. 

STEP THREE: While the mixture is cooling, distribute the cucumber spears, dill, and sliced onions equally to 2 wide-mouth quart-sized jars. 

OUR RECIPE DEVELOPER SAYS

The wide-mouth jars make it easier to fill than the canning jars with a narrower opening.

cucumbers spears, dill, and sliced onion placed in a jar

STEP FOUR: Add the cooled liquid to the jars and top with the mason jar lids. Refrigerate for 3 days for the best result.

PRO TIP:

Once you add the lids, give the jars a good shake to make sure all of the spices and liquids are evenly distributed.

cooled liquid added to the jars

How To Serve Spicy Homemade Refrigerator Pickles

Refrigerator pickles are a quick and tasty condiment that can make a meal instantly more pleasing. The tart, vinegary flavor pairs nicely with many dishes.

They can add a flavorful crunch to burgers and tacos, or play a supporting role in potato salads and pasta salads.

They also make interesting snacks when served with a simple cheese plate, olives, and crackers.

These sweet and tangy pickles are the perfect pickle to enjoy on sandwiches or subs. Add them to our party sub or fried chicken sandwich for two great recipes that would be made even better with pickles.

Of course, you could also just snack on them right out of the jar!

Our cucumber salad and cucumber bites are two more ways you can use up your garden cucumbers this year.

How To Store Fridge Pickles

Let’s have a look at how to store them properly so you can enjoy their freshness for as long as possible.

IN THE FRIDGE: Keep the homemade pickles in the jar tightly covered. The pickles are not processed in a water bath, so please store them under refrigeration.

Label your jars so that you know how long you have to enjoy them.

IN THE FREEZER: We do not recommend storing these spicy refrigerator pickles in the freezer. They are best stored in the fridge and consumed within a month.

a plate and a jar of Refrigerator Pickles

You Will Love These Simple Refrigerator Pickles

Satisfy your pickle craving with this zesty refrigerator dill pickle recipe. No canning or processing is required, so this recipe makes it quick and easy to whip up a batch of refrigerator pickles to keep in the fridge to satisfy a craving for a crunchy snack.

Refrigerator Pickles FAQs

How do these pickles taste?

These crisp pickles, based on a vintage recipe, are tangy and sweet. The sweet-tart flavor of the pickle spears is the perfect accompaniment to hearty sandwiches and party subs.

How long will homemade refrigerator pickles last?

The jar of pickles will last for about a month in the refrigerator. 

What are refrigerator pickles?

Refrigerator pickles are a great way to use up an abundance of cucumbers. You don’t need to worry about canning them in a water bath. You just make a syrup using simple pantry ingredients and pour it over the pickles. 

What is another variation I can make?

You can slice the cucumbers instead of cutting them into spears to make pickle chips. You can also add fresh garlic cloves to each jar if you like garlic-flavored pickles. Slightly smash the garlic cloves before adding them to the jar. 

Can I can these pickles?

This easy refrigerator pickles recipe is not designed to be used for pickles that are being canned.

What is the difference between refrigerator pickles and regular pickles?

Refrigerator pickles are preserved in vinegar, but they are not processed using a water bath. They must be stored in the refrigerator or they will spoil.

Canned pickles, on the other hand, are processed with a water bath and are shelf-stable, meaning they don’t have to be stored in the fridge.

How long do refrigerator pickles last?

Refrigerator pickles can keep in the fridge for around 2-3 months.

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A close up shot of Refrigerator Pickles in jars

Refrigerator Pickle Recipe

5 from 39 votes
These tangy refrigerator pickles have plenty of great flavors and are the perfect way to preserve all your spoils from cucumber season, using a simple brine that keeps them fresh in the fridge for up to a month.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 days 20 minutes
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups white vinegar
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons pickling spice
  • 6 dried red chilis, optional
  • 6 sprigs fresh dill
  • 1 pound Kirby cucumbers, pickling cucumber, cut into spears about 4 small cucumbers
  • 1 cup sliced yellow onion

Instructions
 

  • Add the white vinegar, sugar, salt, pickling spice, and red chilis to a medium saucepan. Bring the ingredients to a simmer, stirring constantly. Let simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the sugar is dissolved completely. The mixture will become clearer once all of the sugar is dissolved.
  • Let the mixture cool completely before adding it to the jars.
  • While the mixture is cooling, distribute the cucumber spears, dill, and sliced onions equally to 2 wide-mouth quart-sized jars.
  • Add the cooled liquid to the jars and top with the mason jar lids. Refrigerate for 3 days for the best result.

Notes

  • It is important that you are using the correct type of fresh cucumbers for this easy recipe; otherwise, you will end up with soggy pickles.
  • The wide-mouth jars make it easier to fill than the canning jars with a narrower opening.
  • Once you add the lids, give the jars a good shake to make sure all of the spices and liquids are evenly distributed.

Nutrition

Calories: 1354kcal | Carbohydrates: 328g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 3525mg | Potassium: 959mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 313g | Vitamin A: 1714IU | Vitamin C: 212mg | Calcium: 143mg | Iron: 3mg
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This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

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  1. Brigid Wolny says

    5 stars
    This sounds perfect! Love pickles and think making my own could be fun. I am not one for spicy but think the sugar might tone that down a little, will have to try both ways!!

  2. Deborah Auble says

    5 stars
    This recipe sounds amazing. I will be trying it out. I have made refrigerator pickles before but never a sweet and sour. Can’t wait to make them.

  3. Pam McClammy says

    5 stars
    I have made refrigerator pickles with my mother-in-law that had a mild garlic dill flavor. We used them to make tuna salad sandwiches and many other recipes that called for relish or just serving with a relish tray on the dinner table. My family loved just eating them straight as a snack They didn’t last long in the fridge at our house. We loved them this recipe looks really good too.

  4. Glenda Harding says

    5 stars
    I have never made refrigerator pickles , but I do love me a pickle. I would add chili flakes and garlic. These look easy enough to make due to your great explanation and pictures (I love the pictures especially). Thank you#

  5. Lakisha says

    I love pickles yummmy never had spicy ones nor made homemade but i was glad to see this recipe lil garlic no it makes me sick i eat pickles all the time

  6. Jennifer Bonsness says

    5 stars
    I have not done homemade pickles before as the idea of jarring/canning seems overwhelming to me. I would definitely try them with garlic! I will do this recipe. Sounds delicious!

  7. Kim says

    5 stars
    These are the best refrigerator pickles i have eaten. Easy to make and no more pressure cooking. Kids love helping make these as well as counting down days to eating them. I sometimes do slices instead of spears

  8. Jordan says

    5 stars
    I have never made pickles in the refrigerator but I love when other people do! This looks clear and easy to follow so I am excited to try!

  9. Jooles says

    5 stars
    Being from the UK, Kirby cucumbers are not the usual kind but will be having a try as my Husband loves cucumber. As a coeliac I’m more careful but will try pickling other veg.
    Thank-you for the idea and making a fun use of veg.

    Jooles

  10. Linda says

    I have made refrigerator pickles for years and serve them with any type of sandwich meal. Always a staple at cookouts. I’m looking forward to trying your recipe which will add a little spice to my version. Thanks for a new recipe to try.

  11. Mary says

    5 stars
    I have tried this recipe they are so delicious and crispy. Plan on making more after a visit to my local fresh vegetable market!

  12. Kayla Standley says

    5 stars
    I make these all the time but add fresh garlic cloves. I also do this with okra as well, my kids and I love pickles whenever so we love making this recipe, easy and convenient.

  13. Mitzi says

    I have never made refrigerator pickles but I would love to try these a little spicy. I think they would be great in a Bloody Mary 🙂

  14. Oliver Davidson says

    I never made homemade pickles in the fridge,but will try this recipe and will add a little garlic to the recipe.

  15. Kerrie H. says

    These look so delicious! Don’t know how long they’d last at our house, we snack on pickles on the daily!! Not big on spicy here, so ours would be mild and why not try a little garlic too!!

  16. Debra Edison says

    5 stars
    I love my pickles sweet and spicy. I love all the recipes. They are so easy to follow! Thank you so much❤️.

  17. Janice Whalen says

    I am a pickle addict. However, not a spicy lover so I would change that out in the recipe but otherwise, pickles, pickles, pickles! I have just made some beet pickles and mustard bean pickles….can’t wait to eat them!

    Janice

  18. Eileen Emerson says

    5 stars
    Yes I’ve made pickles before but not these refrigerated ones. I’ll give it a whirl… Typically I love the garlic and some heat when pickling, especially my dilly beans. Once a jar is opened they’re devoured the same day, they go quickly!

  19. Ramona Tomasello says

    5 stars
    I have made refrigerator pickles but not like this I will be trying these sound very good .Thank you Ramona Tomasello

  20. Miki Schmal says

    5 stars
    This recipe sounds great and SO easy. I’ve never made refrigerator pickles, or any other kind for that matter. I always thought the process was long and I’ve never canned a food in my life. So I love the idea of a refrigerator pickle. My entire family eats them with a sandwich, on burgers or as a snack (my 8 yr old granddaughter eats them after school almost every day!) I’m very eager to try this so I’ll get the Kirby cucumber next time I grocery shop. Thanks for yet another great recipe!

  21. Kelli says

    I have never made refrigerator pickles but I am going to try these this week. I love pickles! Will be fun to taste the outcome! Thank you 😊

  22. Nancy A. says

    5 stars
    These sound delicious! My family loves pickles and I would love to make these. We like them on the mild side and eat them with everything, and even by themselves.

  23. Summer says

    5 stars
    OMG! I will be making these in both a mild and spicy version! Is there a version with a sugar sub that you can recommend?

  24. Stephanie says

    5 stars
    This looks like an easier recipe then most & I look forward to trying it as I have never ever made pickles🤗

  25. Stephanie says

    5 stars
    I’m not a pickle fan, but made them for my daughter in law and my granddaughter—they loved them. Keeping this receipt

  26. Melissa says

    5 stars
    I have never made refrigerator pickles, but these look easy and tasty! Not sure about the heat, we’re heat wimps! 😁

  27. Dawn M says

    OMG, I love pickles. I have never made them in the refrigerator before, and I would like mine a little spicy and definitely would add garlic. I love to eat pickles whenever especially for a snack!!

  28. Jennifer says

    I have never made fridge pickles. I don’t like sweet pickles, or spicy (but love garlic and dill) can it be modified?

  29. Jennifer Rogerson says

    I haven’t made homemade pickles but when I do I would make both spicy and mild and I would add garlic

  30. Andrea Stoeckel says

    5 stars
    Have you ever made homemade pickles in the fridge? Yes, in fact we had the last of them last night
    Would you like these pickles spicy or mild? NO jalepanos
    Would you add garlic to your pickles? Doesn’t everyone
    When do you serve pickles? ANYTIME, they are one of MY favorites

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