How long do sun pickles last?

When stored in the refrigerator, these sun pickles will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 2 months. However, for the best flavor, they are usually consumed within 3-4 weeks.

Can I make this easy sun pickle recipe in the winter?

This specific recipe relies on the heat and UV rays of the sun. While you can make 'refrigerator pickles' in the winter, the unique flavor and texture of a sun pickle recipe require a sunny, warm environment.

Why did my pickles turn soft?

Softness is usually caused by not trimming the blossom end of the cucumber, using old cucumbers, or leaving the jars in the sun for more than 3 days. Always use fresh, firm cucumbers.

Is it safe to pickle in the sun?

Yes, the combination of salt and vinegar creates an acidic environment that prevents spoilage during the short time the jars are outdoors. Always refrigerate the jars after the initial 48-hour sun period.

easy sun pickle recipe: 5 Simple Steps to the Best Summer Jars

Name: Easy Sun Pickle Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 48 h
Total time: 48 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs pickling cucumbers (Kirby or similar); 4 cups filtered water; 1/4 cup pickling salt; 1/2 cup white vinegar (5% acidity); 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 4 sprigs fresh dill; 1 tsp black peppercorns; 1/2 tsp mustard seeds; 2 grape leaves (optional, for extra crunch)

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs pickling cucumbers (Kirby or similar)
4 cups filtered water
1/4 cup pickling salt
1/2 cup white vinegar (5% acidity)
4 cloves garlic, smashed
4 sprigs fresh dill
1 tsp black peppercorns
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
2 grape leaves (optional, for extra crunch)

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Instructions

Step 1: Thoroughly wash cucumbers and trim the blossom ends. Slices into spears or leave whole if they are small.
Step 2: In a large pitcher, whisk together the water, pickling salt, and vinegar until the salt is completely dissolved to create the brine for the easy sun pickle recipe.
Step 3: Distribute the garlic, dill, peppercorns, and mustard seeds evenly between two sterilized quart-sized glass jars.
Step 4: Pack the cucumbers tightly into the jars, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top.
Step 5: Pour the brine over the cucumbers until they are fully submerged. Place a grape leaf on top if using.
Step 6: Close the lids tightly and place the jars in a location with direct sunlight for 2 days. Shake gently once per day.
Step 7: After 2 days, move the jars to the refrigerator. Once chilled, the easy sun pickle recipe is ready to enjoy!

Notes

If the weather is overcast, you may need an extra day of sun. Always move jars to the fridge after 2-3 days to maintain the best texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 days
Category: Drinks, Snacks & Holiday Treats
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 spears
Calories: 15
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg