Who doesn’t love a little sweet and spicy kick to elevate a classic? Our jalapeño bread and butter recipe is the perfect blend of heat and sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser at any table. This twist on the traditional bread and butter pickles adds a bold flavor that’s impossible to resist.
Originally inspired by Southern comfort food, this recipe brings a modern flair to a beloved staple. It’s versatile enough to pair with burgers, sandwiches, or even as a snack on its own. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so we can enjoy it fresh anytime we want.
Jalapeno Bread And Butter Recipe
To prepare the best jalapeño bread and butter pickles, we’ll walk through simple and detailed steps that capture the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Let’s dive into the process.
Ingredients
- 6–8 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 small Vidalia onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the jar and jalapeños:
Start by sterilizing a 16-ounce mason jar in hot water. For the jalapeños, wash them thoroughly, then slice them into thin, uniform rings. Place the sliced jalapeños and Vidalia onion into the sterilized jar.
- Cook the brine:
In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, water, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, salt, and red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Simmer briefly:
Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 2–3 minutes for the spices to fully meld into the brine.
- Pour the brine over the jalapeños:
Carefully pour the hot brine over the jalapeños and onions in the jar. Make sure all the slices are fully submerged in the liquid. Use a spoon to press down if necessary.
- Seal and cool:
Place the lid on the jar. Let the jar cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate and enjoy:
Allow the jalapeño bread and butter pickles to chill in the fridge for at least 24 hours to enhance the flavors. For optimal taste, wait a full 48 hours.
Here’s a quick timeline breakdown:
| Process Steps | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Preparing ingredients | 10 minutes |
| Cooking brine | 5 minutes |
| Simmering brine | 3 minutes |
| Cooling and sealing | 1 hour (approx.) |
| Refrigeration (minimum) | 24 hours |
These sweet and tangy pickled jalapeños can be enjoyed for up to 2–3 weeks when stored properly in the fridge. Use them to elevate burgers, sandwiches, or any dish craving a burst of bold flavor.
Ingredients
For our Jalapeño Bread and Butter Pickles, we’ve curated a list of simple yet flavorful components to perfectly balance the sweetness, tanginess, and heat. Gather the following fresh and pantry staples:
Fresh Produce
- 10–12 fresh jalapeño peppers (thinly sliced, about 2 cups)
- 1 medium Vidalia onion (finely sliced)
Brine Essentials
- 1 cup white distilled vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Tools
- Sterilized mason jar (16 oz)
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Sharp knife or mandoline (for uniform slicing)
- Tongs or a funnel (for easy jar filling)
These ingredients work harmoniously to create the ideal balance of sweet and spicy notes we love in our jalapeño bread and butter pickles. Fresh jalapeños and Vidalia onions shine as the stars of this recipe, backed by vinegar, sugar, and spices creating a vibrant brine.
Tools And Equipment
To create the perfect jalapeño bread and butter pickles, having the right tools at hand is essential. Here’s a detailed list of everything we need and why it’s important for the process:
Essential Tools:
- Sterilized Mason Jar (16 oz): This jar ensures proper storage and maintains the freshness of our pickles. Sterilizing the jar prevents contamination.
- Medium-Sized Saucepan: Critical for cooking the sweet and tangy brine to perfection. Choose a non-reactive material like stainless steel.
- Sharp Knife or Mandoline: Whether we prefer hand-slicing or using a mandoline for speed, uniform slices of jalapeños and onion help in even pickling.
- Cutting Board: Provides a sturdy and hygienic surface to chop jalapeños and onion.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurement of vinegar, sugar, and spices for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Mixing Spoon (Wooden or Silicone): Ideal for stirring the brine ingredients without scraping or reacting with the pan.
- Tongs or Jar Lifter: Useful for safely transferring the sterilized jar without risking burns.
Optional Tools for Convenience:
- Funnels: A wide-mouth funnel can make transferring the brine into the mason jar easier and mess-free.
- Kitchen Gloves: Protects hands when slicing jalapeños, preventing accidental irritation from chili oils.
- Thermometer: Helps us monitor brine temperature if needed, though not essential for this recipe.
Tool Checklist:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sterilized Mason Jar | Storage and preservation of pickles. |
| Medium-Sized Saucepan | Cooking the brine evenly. |
| Sharp Knife or Mandoline | Uniform slicing of jalapeños and onion. |
| Cutting Board | Stable, clean chopping surface. |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements. |
| Mixing Spoon | Non-reactive stirring of brine. |
| Tongs/Jar Lifter | Safe jar handling during sterilization. |
| Funnels (Optional) | Neat brine transfer to the mason jar. |
| Gloves (Optional) | Protection during jalapeño slicing. |
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our delicious Jalapeño Bread and Butter. Each component is prepared separately to ensure bold flavors come together effortlessly.
Prep
- Sterilize Tools and Prep Ingredients: Sterilize your mason jar to maintain freshness and avoid contamination. Thoroughly wash 10–12 fresh jalapeños and peel 1 medium Vidalia onion.
- Slice Uniformly: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the jalapeños and onion into thin, even rings. For safety, wear kitchen gloves if handling spicy peppers directly.
Cooking The Jalapeño Bread
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- Combine and Fold: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Gently fold, being careful not to overmix.
- Add Jalapeños: Mix in half of the sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Save the rest for topping.
- Bake in Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Making The Butter
- Soften Butter: Let 1/2 cup unsalted butter sit at room temperature until softened.
- Sweeten with Honey: Blend the butter with 2 tbsp honey for a lightly sweet note.
- Incorporate Seasonings: Stir in 1/4 tsp mustard seeds and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat). Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Assemble
- Slice Jalapeño Bread: Once the bread has cooled, slice it into thick pieces.
- Spread Butter Generously: Slather each slice with the sweet and tangy prepared butter.
- Garnish: Top with the leftover jalapeño slices for added texture and spice.
Enjoy our Jalapeño Bread and Butter as a standalone snack or alongside your favorite dishes.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to savoring our Jalapeño Bread and Butter, the possibilities are endless. This delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors plays well with a variety of dishes and occasions. Below are some serving ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
As a Condiment or Topping
- Add a spoonful of pickled jalapeños as a bold topping for burgers, sandwiches, or hot dogs. Their crisp texture and spicy-sweet profile elevate any ordinary bite.
- Sprinkle the jalapeños over deviled eggs or a fresh green salad to infuse it with a hint of spice.
- Pair the sweet and spicy butter with cornbread, biscuits, or even toasted bagels. The butter’s smooth, honey-infused texture makes any bread irresistible.
As a Side Dish
- Serve slices of jalapeño bread alongside a hearty chili or a bean soup. The bread’s moist texture and subtle heat cut through the richness of these dishes perfectly.
- Create a cheese board with sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and creamy brie, and use the pickles and jalapeño butter as unique accompaniments.
As a Snack or Appetizer
- Spread the jalapeño butter on lightly toasted crostini for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Serve the pickles in small bowls at gatherings—guests will love the fiery-sweet crunch as a pop-in appetizer.
- Make mini sandwiches with the bread, using deli meats and cheeses, topped with an extra layer of the spicy jalapeños for a kick.
Using Leftover Jalapeños and Bread
- Chop leftover pickled jalapeños and mix them into coleslaw, potato salad, or even an omelet for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Use leftover jalapeño bread to make croutons—dice the bread into cubes, toast them with olive oil, and season lightly for salads or soups.
- Turn sliced bread into a spicy grilled cheese by layering it with melty cheese and a few extra pickles.
Pro Tip
For an elevated flavor combination, drizzle a touch of honey over the buttered bread before serving, balancing spice with sweetness beautifully.
Jalapeño Bread and Butter Pairing Table
Here is a quick reference for pairing ideas:
| Dish | Pairing |
|---|---|
| Burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs | Jalapeño pickles as a topping |
| Chili, bean soup | Slices of jalapeño bread as a side |
| Cheese board | Jalapeño pickles and butter as accompaniments |
| Crostini | Topped with jalapeño butter for appetizers |
| Omelets, coleslaw, salads | Chopped leftover pickled jalapeños mixed in |
This versatile recipe ensures that we can enjoy jalapeño bread and butter in almost any setting—whether it’s a casual family meal, a holiday spread, or simply a snack to brighten any day.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Proper planning can elevate the convenience and flavor of our jalapeño bread and butter recipe. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or stocking up for personal indulgence, these make-ahead steps ensure optimal freshness and taste.
Preparing Ahead for Pickled Jalapeños
For the pickled jalapeños, the process benefits significantly from advanced preparation. The flavor deepens as the spices infuse. Follow these steps:
- Sterilize jars in advance: Ensure jars are clean and sterilized before use by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Store them in a clean spot until ready.
- Slice and prep ingredients: Slice the jalapeños and onions the day before. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Make the brine early: Cook the vinegar, sugar, and spices mixture, let it cool completely, and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Assemble when convenient: Combine the brine and sliced vegetables in the mason jar when ready, and refrigerate immediately.
“For peak flavor, allow the pickled jalapeños to chill for at least 24 hours before serving.”
Preparing Ahead for Jalapeño Bread
Baking bread with a plan can simplify the process and save time. Here’s how to get ahead:
- Measure and mix dry ingredients early: Combine all the dry ingredients (such as flour, baking powder, salt, etc.) and store them in a labeled, airtight container.
- Prep wet ingredients in stages: Mix milk, eggs, or other liquid ingredients the day of baking, as they are best fresh.
- Store batter properly if needed: If the batter must be made earlier, refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. Let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.
- Bake up to a day ahead: Bake the jalapeño bread up to 1 day in advance. Once cooled, wrap tightly in foil and store at room temperature.
Preparing Ahead for Jalapeño Butter
Advance preparation of the sweet and tangy butter ensures it’s ready to serve with minimal effort.
- Mix butter, honey, and seasonings ahead: Blend softened butter, honey, and optional spices. Transfer the mixture to a small airtight dish or mold.
- Refrigerate for longevity: Store the butter for up to 1 week in the fridge, ensuring the container remains sealed.
- Bring to room temperature before serving: For the creamiest texture, remove the butter from the refrigerator 15–20 minutes before serving.
Storage Tips At-a-Glance
To quickly reference storage specifics for each component, refer to the table below:
| Component | Storage Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Pickled Jalapeños | 2–3 weeks in the fridge | Refrigerate in sterilized jars; flavor improves after 24 hours. |
| Jalapeño Bread | 1 day at room temp | Wrap tightly in foil or an airtight container. |
| Jalapeño Butter | Up to 7 days in fridge | Store in an airtight container; soften before serving. |
By using these Make-Ahead Instructions, we simplify the preparation process while ensuring maximum flavor, ease, and satisfaction.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures that our jalapeño bread and butter components stay fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. Here, we’ll outline how to preserve the pickled jalapeños, jalapeño bread, and butter effectively.
Pickled Jalapeños
- Refrigeration: Store the pickled jalapeños in a sterilized mason jar filled with brine. Ensure the jar is tightly sealed.
- Optimal Storage Time: 2–3 weeks for the best flavor.
- Placement: Always keep the jar refrigerated at 40°F or below to maintain freshness. Avoid leaving the jar at room temperature for prolonged periods.
Jalapeño Bread
- Room Temperature:
- Wrap the bread in parchment paper or store it in a bread tin with a loose-fitting lid for 2–3 days.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: If storing for more than 3 days, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a resealable freezer bag. Use within 5–7 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices or the whole loaf by double-wrapping in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
- Thawing Tip: Let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Jalapeño Butter
- Refrigeration: Place the butter in an airtight container or wrap tightly in parchment or plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated at 40°F and use within 2 weeks.
- Freezing: To extend shelf life, freeze the butter in individual portions.
- Freeze Time: Up to 3 months.
- Tip: Use an ice cube tray for easy portioning. Seal cubes in a gallon-sized freezer bag.
Quick Reference Table
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickled Jalapeños | Refrigerated in brine | 2–3 weeks | Use a sterilized jar; keep below 40°F |
| Jalapeño Bread | Room temperature or frozen | 2–3 days / Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly for freshness; thaw properly |
| Jalapeño Butter | Refrigerated or frozen | 2 weeks / 3 months | Freeze in portions for convenience |
By following these storage techniques, we ensure our creations maintain their bold, sweet, and spicy flavors until we’re ready to enjoy them.
Conclusion
Jalapeño bread and butter bring a unique blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to add a bold twist to your everyday dishes, these recipes offer endless possibilities. With their easy preparation, versatile serving options, and convenient storage tips, they’re perfect for any occasion. Let’s keep experimenting and enjoying the vibrant flavors these creations bring to our table!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes jalapeño bread and butter pickles unique?
Jalapeño bread and butter pickles combine sweet and spicy flavors, offering a bold twist on classic bread and butter pickles. They pair well with burgers, sandwiches, salads, or can be enjoyed as a snack.
How long do jalapeño pickles need to chill before eating?
For the best flavor, let the pickles chill for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator before eating.
How long can I store pickled jalapeños?
Properly stored in a sterilized mason jar in the fridge, pickled jalapeños can last 2–3 weeks.
What tools do I need to make pickled jalapeños?
Essential tools include a sterilized mason jar, a medium-sized saucepan, and a sharp knife or mandoline for slicing. Funnels and kitchen gloves are optional but helpful.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the pickles?
Yes, you can control the heat by adding or reducing crushed red pepper flakes and adjusting the number of jalapeño seeds.
How should I store jalapeño bread?
Jalapeño bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
What is jalapeño butter, and how long does it last?
Jalapeño butter is a sweet and spicy butter made with honey and optional seasonings. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for up to 3 months.
How is jalapeño bread served?
Jalapeño bread pairs well with chili, bean soup, or as a side. Spread jalapeño butter on top for added flavor or garnish with pickled jalapeños.
Can I prepare the bread and butter pickles in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pickled jalapeños and jalapeño bread ahead of time. For example, brine the jalapeños and bake the bread a day before serving to save time.
Are there any creative ways to use these pickles and bread?
Yes! Use the pickles as toppings for burgers, sandwiches, or salads. Add jalapeño butter to cornbread or biscuits. You can also include them in cheese boards, coleslaw, or grilled cheese sandwiches.