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Easy Crunchy Refrigerator Dill Pickles Recipe Perfect for Homemade Snacks

easy crunchy refrigerator dill pickles - featured image

These easy crunchy refrigerator dill pickles are quick to make, requiring no boiling or pressure canning, and deliver a satisfying tangy crunch perfect for snacks or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) fresh cucumbers, small to medium-sized, preferably Kirby or pickling cucumbers
  • 34 sprigs fresh dill (about 2 tablespoons of dill heads)
  • 34 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) white vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon pickling salt or kosher salt (avoid iodized salt)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice cucumbers: Rinse cucumbers under cold water and pat dry. Slice off the ends and cut into spears about 3 inches long and ¼ inch thick.
  2. Prepare the brine: In a mixing bowl, combine white vinegar, water, pickling salt, and sugar. Stir until salt and sugar are fully dissolved.
  3. Pack the jars: Place fresh dill sprigs, smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf into clean glass jars. Tightly pack sliced cucumbers into the jars using tongs or chopsticks to avoid bruising.
  4. Pour the brine: Pour the brine over the cucumbers ensuring they are completely submerged, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Seal the jars tightly.
  5. Refrigerate: Place jars in the refrigerator and let pickle for at least 48 hours before tasting. For best flavor and crunch, wait 3-5 days. Store refrigerated for up to 4 weeks.

Notes

Use fresh, firm cucumbers for best crunch. Avoid iodized salt to keep brine clear. Keep cucumbers fully submerged in brine to prevent spoilage. Patience is key; flavor and crunch improve after 3-5 days. Optionally add jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for spicier pickles. Store refrigerated and consume within 4 weeks.

Nutrition

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