Introduction – What Are Candied Pickles?
If you’ve never tried candied pickles, you’re in for a surprising Southern treat!
These are not your average sour pickles — they’re sliced, soaked in sugar, spices, and a little vinegar to create a flavor bomb that’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy.
Popular in Texas kitchens and passed down through generations, candied pickles are perfect for snacking, sandwich-stuffing, or even gifting in jars.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 jar (32 oz) dill pickle chips or spears (drained)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne for heat
👨🍳 How to Make Candied Pickles – Step by Step
🔹 Step 1: Drain the Pickles
Drain the juice from the pickle jar and set the pickles aside in a large bowl or clean jar.
🔹 Step 2: Mix the Sweet Brine
In a separate bowl, combine sugar, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Stir until sugar is mostly dissolved.
🔹 Step 3: Layer and Pour
Layer pickles and sugar mixture in the jar, alternating if needed. Pour any remaining syrup over the top.
🔹 Step 4: Let Them Sit
Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for 4–7 days, flipping the jar daily to help coat all the pickles.
As they sit, the sugar melts, and the pickles soak in that addictive flavor.
🧊 How to Store Candied Pickles
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months
- Use sterile jars if gifting or preserving longer
- Flavor intensifies over time — even better after 1–2 weeks!
🍽️ How to Enjoy Candied Pickles
- 🥪 Add to pulled pork, burgers, or BBQ sandwiches
- 🧀 Serve with charcuterie boards or cheese platters
- 🍗 As a sweet side to fried chicken or ribs
- 🎁 Pack in mason jars with a label for homemade edible gifts!
💡 Tips & Variations
- Try with jalapeño slices for extra kick
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of white for more depth
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or clove for festive flavor
- For zero spice, skip the chili entirely
❓ FAQ – Candied Pickles
Q: Can I use whole pickles?
Yes, just slice them into coins or spears before candifying.
Q: Are candied pickles spicy?
Only if you add red pepper — you control the heat!
Q: Can I use bread and butter pickles?
You can, but the result will be much sweeter — best to use sour or dill pickles for balance.
