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Homemade Claussen pickles in a jar with fresh ingredients
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Homemade Claussen Pickles

Experience the crunchy, tangy goodness of Homemade Claussen Pickles with this simple recipe that uses minimal ingredients for a delightful pickling experience.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Condiment, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Claussen pickles, Dill Pickles, homemade pickles, pickles, refrigerator pickles
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 10kcal

Ingredients

Brine Ingredients

  • 1 cup white vinegar The foundation of your tangy brine, it adds a clean, crisp flavor.
  • 2 tbsp pickling salt Enhances the flavor and maintains the crunch of your pickles.
  • 2 cups water Balances the vinegar and supports the brining process.
  • 1 tbsp sugar Slightly sweetens the brine, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Flavorings

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Offers a subtle kick to your pickles, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
  • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns Adds aromatic depth to the brining process.
  • 1/2 tsp dill seeds Brings a quintessential dill flavor that complements the cucumber beautifully.
  • 2 garlic cloves smashed garlic Infuses a delightful garlicky aroma and flavor.
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds Contributes an earthy, warm taste.

Vegetables

  • 2 lbs pickling cucumbers Fresh, crunchy cucumbers are the star of the show, and they should be firm for the best results.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Begin by rinsing the cucumbers under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the ends and then cut them into your desired shape—spears, chips, or leave them whole as gherkins.

Make the Brine

  • In a saucepan, combine the water, white vinegar, sugar, and pickling salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the salt and sugar dissolve completely.

Add Flavorings

  • Remove the brine from heat and add the smashed garlic, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, dill seeds, and black peppercorns to the hot brine. Let it cool slightly to infuse flavors.

Pack the Jars

  • In clean glass jars, tightly pack your cut cucumbers. Make sure to distribute the smashed garlic and spices evenly among the jars.

Pour Brine Over Cucumbers

  • Carefully pour the brine over the cucumbers in the jars, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave a small space at the top of each jar for expansion.

Seal and Cool

  • Once the jars are filled, seal them with their lids and let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate and ideally wait 3–5 days before tasting for the best flavor development.

Notes

Use freshly harvested cucumbers for the best crunch. Experiment with spices for added flavor and adjust sugar level for a sweeter variation.