Sugar Free Bread Butter pickles have always been a nostalgic treat for me, bringing back memories of summer BBQs and my grandma’s picnic spread. But since I started eating a keto lifestyle, I thought those sweet and tangy flavors were off-limits. That is, until I discovered how to make these amazing keto bread and butter pickles! They capture that classic sweet and sour taste without any of the carbs. The crunch is just perfect, and the hint of spice makes them irresistible. I’m so excited to share this recipe for homemade sugar free pickles with you – they’re surprisingly easy to whip up and taste incredible. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
You’ll absolutely adore these pickles for so many reasons:
- Incredible Taste: They perfectly balance sweet, tangy, and a hint of spice, just like the classic version.
- Quick Prep Time: You only need about 15 minutes of active prep before they start their magic.
- Keto-Friendly: These low carb bread and butter pickles are perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
- Healthier Choice: You get all the flavor without the sugar spike, making them a great guilt-free snack.
- Budget-Friendly: Making them at home is much more economical than buying specialty keto pickles.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will reach for these delicious pickles – they’re a crowd-pleaser!
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy them on burgers, sandwiches, or straight from the jar as a refreshing treat.
- Flavorful Condiment: These low carb bread and butter pickles elevate any dish with their unique taste.
Ingredients for Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious keto pickles:
- 2 pounds Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced – these are my go-to for pickling because they stay nice and crisp.
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced – for that classic sweet and savory base.
- 1/4 cup pickling salt – essential for drawing out moisture and preserving the pickles.
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar – the tangy backbone of our brine.
- 1 cup water – to dilute the vinegar perfectly.
- 1 cup erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener – this is key for that sweet pickle flavor without the sugar!
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds – adds a tiny pop of flavor and texture.
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds – brings a subtle, earthy note.
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric – gives our pickles that beautiful golden hue.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle kick if you like a little heat!
How to Make Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
- Step 1: First, we need to prep our veggies. Place the thinly sliced cucumbers and onion in a large bowl. Sprinkle them generously with 1/4 cup pickling salt and toss everything together until well coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, or if you prefer, you can refrigerate it overnight. This salting process draws out excess moisture, ensuring your pickles have a great crunch.
- Step 2: Once the salting time is up, drain the cucumbers and onions very well. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove the salt, and then drain them again. Gently press out as much liquid as you possibly can – the drier they are, the better they’ll absorb the brine.
- Step 3: Now, let’s make that delicious brine! In a large pot, combine 2 cups apple cider vinegar, 1 cup water, 1 cup erythritol (or your preferred keto sweetener), 1 tablespoon mustard seeds, 1 tablespoon celery seeds, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Step 4: Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Keep stirring until the sweetener has completely dissolved. You’ll notice the aroma starting to fill your kitchen – it smells so promising for this sugar free bread and butter recipe.
- Step 5: Carefully add the drained cucumbers and onions to the boiling brine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Give it an occasional stir to make sure the vegetables are evenly heated through.
- Step 6: After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Allow the pickles and brine to cool completely in the pot. This step is crucial for developing those wonderful sweet and tangy flavors that make this sugar free bread and butter recipe so special.
- Step 7: Once cooled, transfer the Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles into clean jars. Make sure the pickles are fully submerged in the brine. This brine is what preserves them and infuses them with flavor, creating that perfect pickle experience.
- Step 8: Finally, seal the jars tightly and refrigerate them for at least 24 hours before you dig in. This chilling time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully, making this a truly satisfying sugar free bread and butter recipe.

Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure these pickles turn out perfectly every time:
- Always use Kirby cucumbers; they hold up best to the brine and have a fantastic crunch.
- Don’t skip the salting and draining step! This is essential for crisp pickles and preventing them from getting mushy.
- Taste your brine before adding the vegetables. Adjust the sweetener or vinegar if needed to suit your preference.
- Ensure your jars are sterilized before filling to maximize storage time.
What’s the secret to perfect Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles?
The real secret to amazing keto bread and butter pickles is the balance of sweetener and vinegar, plus that crucial salting step which ensures maximum crunch. Letting them chill for at least 24 hours really lets those flavors meld beautifully.
Can I make Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles ahead of time?
Absolutely! These pickles are perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store them in the refrigerator for several weeks. They actually get better with a little age, so making them ahead is ideal. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out our latest recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles?
A common pitfall is using cucumbers that are too watery, which leads to soft pickles. Make sure to drain them really well after salting. Also, avoid over-simmering the pickles in the brine, as this can make them limp instead of crisp. Learn more about proper pickling techniques from sources like the FDA.
Best Ways to Serve Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
These delightfully crisp and tangy pickles are incredibly versatile. They’re a must-have for any burger or sandwich, adding a fantastic sweet and sour kick that cuts through richness. Try them on a charcuterie board alongside some sharp cheddar and cured meats – their bright flavor is a welcome contrast. I also love to chop them up and add them to chicken salad or tuna salad for an extra burst of flavor. These sugar free pickles are also surprisingly delicious served alongside grilled pork or roasted chicken, offering a refreshing counterpoint to heartier dishes. For more salad inspiration, consider a cucumber caprese salad.
Nutrition Facts for Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
Here’s a look at what you can expect in each serving of these fantastic pickles:
- Calories: 25
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
Proper storage is key to enjoying these delicious pickles for weeks to come. Once your Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles have cooled completely in their brine, transfer them to clean, airtight containers. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are ideal for maintaining freshness and preventing any flavor transfer. You can confidently store these in your refrigerator for about 3 to 4 weeks. While these pickles are best enjoyed fresh from the fridge, they can technically be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture might soften upon thawing. For reheating, it’s generally not necessary as they are a cold condiment, but if you’re adding them to a warm dish, simply incorporate them as is. These storage-related low carb bread and butter pickles are a fantastic way to have a healthy, flavorful snack on hand! For another great make-ahead dish, try our creamy garlic beef pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles
Can I use a different sweetener in this sugar free bread and butter recipe?
You sure can! While erythritol is a great choice for its neutral flavor and keto-friendliness, you can also use other granular low-carb sweeteners like xylitol (just be cautious if you have pets, as it’s toxic to them!) or allulose. Adjust the amount slightly based on the sweetness level of your chosen sweetener to perfect this sugar free bread and butter recipe.
What kind of cucumbers are best for these keto bread and butter pickles?
For the best texture and crunch, Kirby cucumbers are my top pick. They have a firm flesh and thin skin, which means less prep and a wonderfully crisp pickle. If you can’t find Kirby cucumbers, pickling cucumbers or even Persian cucumbers can work, but try to select the freshest, firmest ones you can find for your keto bread and butter pickles.
How long will these sugar free pickles last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these sugar free pickles will stay delicious for about 3 to 4 weeks. The brine helps preserve them, but their crispness is best enjoyed within that timeframe. Make sure they are always submerged in the brine for optimal storage.
Can I add other spices to this sugar free bread and butter recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your flavorings. A few whole cloves, a bay leaf, or even a few strips of fresh dill can add an extra layer of complexity to this sugar free bread and butter recipe. Some people also like to add a bit more heat with extra red pepper flakes or even a sliced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Variations of Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to mix up these pickles! You can easily create spicy versions by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a sliced jalapeño to the brine. For a different flavor profile, try adding a few whole cloves or a bay leaf to the jar – it adds a subtle complexity that’s really lovely. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even experiment with adding dill or garlic for a more traditional pickle taste. These variations ensure your keto bread and butter pickles always offer something new and exciting, keeping your taste buds delighted. For another delicious recipe, try our bang bang salmon recipe.
Print
Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles: 2 Amazing Recipes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes plus 24 hours chilling
- Yield: Approximately 4-6 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sugar-Free Bread and Butter Pickles offer a keto-friendly take on the classic sweet and tangy pickle. This recipe uses a low-carb sweetener to maintain the traditional flavor, making it suitable for a ketogenic lifestyle. Enjoy these crunchy, slightly spicy, and flavorful pickles on burgers, charcuterie boards, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pickling salt
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Place sliced cucumbers and onion in a large bowl. Sprinkle with pickling salt and toss to coat. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight.
- Drain the cucumbers and onions thoroughly. Rinse them under cold water and drain again, pressing out as much liquid as possible.
- In a large pot, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sweetener, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sweetener is dissolved.
- Add the drained cucumbers and onions to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pot from heat. Let the pickles cool in the liquid.
- Transfer the Sugar-Free Bread and Butter Pickles to clean jars. Ensure the pickles are submerged in the brine.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best results, use Kirby cucumbers as they have a firm texture.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes for your desired level of spice.
- These Sugar-Free Bread and Butter Pickles will keep in the refrigerator for several weeks.
- Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 25
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Sugar Free Bread Butter Pickles keto bread and butter pickles sugar free pickles low carb bread and butter pickles homemade sugar free pickles sugar free bread and butter recipe keto pickles











