Refreshing and uniquely flavorful, cinnamon cucumber pickles are a delightful twist on traditional pickles that will awaken your taste buds. This recipe combines the crisp, cool texture of cucumbers with the warm, aromatic essence of cinnamon, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy.
Perfect for those looking to experiment with their pickle game, these cinnamon-infused pickles are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and add a gourmet touch to any meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned pickle lover or a curious kitchen adventurer, this recipe will inspire you to explore the world of homemade pickling. The gentle spice of cinnamon pairs wonderfully with the natural freshness of cucumbers, making it an excellent accompaniment to sandwiches, salads, or even as a standalone snack.
Plus, making your own pickles at home means you control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and preservative-free treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cinnamon cucumber pickle recipe is a fantastic way to breathe new life into classic pickles. The addition of cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and depth that sets these apart from the usual dill or sour pickles you find in stores.
Here’s why it stands out:
- Unique Flavor Combination: The marriage of sweet cinnamon and tangy vinegar creates a complex taste that surprises and delights.
- Simple Ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples means no complicated shopping lists.
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be done in under an hour, though pickling time enhances flavor.
- Versatile Use: Great as a condiment, appetizer, or snack, enhancing a variety of dishes.
- Health Benefits: Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, and homemade pickles have probiotics when fermented traditionally.
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (about 3 medium cucumbers)
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon or 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
- Fresh dill sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Equipment
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 quart-sized glass jars with lids (sterilized)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Funnels (optional, for easier jar filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumbers: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers using a knife or mandoline. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the pickling brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Add the cinnamon (ground or sticks), black peppercorns, garlic cloves, and mustard seeds if using. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
- Pack the jars: Carefully fill the sterilized glass jars with the cucumber slices, packing them in tightly but without crushing.
- Add fresh dill (optional): If you like a herbal note, tuck a few dill sprigs between the cucumber slices in the jars.
- Pour the brine: Using a ladle or funnel, pour the hot brine over the cucumbers, making sure they are fully submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
- Seal and cool: Wipe the rims of the jars clean and seal tightly with the lids. Allow the jars to cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate: Place the jars in the refrigerator. For best flavor, let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours before enjoying. They will develop deeper flavor over 3-5 days and keep well for up to 3 weeks.
Tips & Variations
“For a more intense cinnamon flavor, use cinnamon sticks instead of ground cinnamon and let the brine simmer longer with the sticks.”
- Crunchier Pickles: To keep cucumbers crisp, soak slices in ice water for an hour before pickling.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a sliced jalapeño for a sweet-spicy twist.
- Fermented Option: Skip the vinegar and ferment the cucumbers in a saltwater brine with cinnamon for probiotic-rich pickles.
- Herbal Variations: Try adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for different aromatic profiles.
- Vinegar Swap: Apple cider vinegar adds a fruity tang that complements the cinnamon well.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per 1/4 cup serving |
---|---|
Calories | 20 |
Carbohydrates | 5g |
Sugar | 4g |
Sodium | 400mg |
Fat | 0g |
Protein | 0g |
Fiber | 0.5g |
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon cucumber pickles are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside your favorite sandwiches to add a sweet and tangy crunch.
They pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted meats, or vegan dishes alike.
For a refreshing snack, enjoy pickles straight from the jar or chop them finely to add to salads, grain bowls, and wraps. Their unique flavor can even brighten up creamy dips or spreads.
Looking for inspiration? Check out some delicious ideas like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or try incorporating these pickles into Vegan Dinners Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals for a flavor boost.
Conclusion
Making your own cinnamon cucumber pickles is a rewarding culinary adventure that yields a tasty and unique condiment. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create pickles that burst with flavor and offer a refreshing twist on a classic favorite.
The warm spice of cinnamon combined with the crispness of cucumber creates a balance that’s both comforting and invigorating.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply enjoy a flavorful homemade snack, these pickles deliver on all fronts. Plus, by making them yourself, you avoid preservatives and control the salt and sugar content, making it a healthier option.
Don’t forget to explore other exciting recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious to keep your kitchen adventures going strong!
📖 Recipe Card: Cinnamon Cucumber Pickle
Description: A unique twist on traditional cucumber pickles with warm cinnamon flavor. Perfect as a tangy and aromatic side or snack.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 cups
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add sliced cucumbers and onions to a clean jar.
- Pour hot brine over cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Let cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.
- Allow pickles to marinate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 35 | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 8g
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