Classic Dill Pickles (Canning Recipe)

Crunchy, tangy, and packed with flavor — these homemade dill pickles are a timeless favorite! Whether you’re a seasoned canner or just starting out, this easy recipe will help you preserve that garden harvest with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for burgers, snacking, or gifting!

🧂 Ingredients (For 6–7 Pint Jars)

• 4 lbs pickling cucumbers (3–4 inches long)

• 4 cups water

• 4 cups white vinegar (5% acidity)

• ⅔ cup canning salt (pickling salt)

• 14 garlic cloves (2 per jar)

• 6–7 heads of fresh dill or 1 tsp dill seeds per jar

• Optional: mustard seeds, peppercorns, red pepper flakes, or grape leaves (for crunch)

🥣 Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers

• Wash cucumbers thoroughly and trim 1/16 inch off the blossom end.

• Soak in ice water for 2–4 hours for extra crispiness (optional but recommended).

2. Sterilize the Jars

• Wash jars, lids, and bands in hot soapy water.

• Sterilize jars in boiling water or keep them hot in a canner or oven until ready to fill.

3. Make the Brine

• In a large saucepan, bring water, vinegar, and canning salt to a boil.

• Stir until salt dissolves completely, then reduce to a low simmer.

🫙 Pack the Jars

1. Add garlic, dill heads (or seeds), and any desired spices to the bottom of each hot jar.

2. Pack cucumbers tightly into jars, leaving ½-inch headspace.

3. Pour hot brine over cucumbers, covering completely and maintaining ½-inch headspace.

4. Remove air bubbles with a non-metallic tool and wipe the jar rims clean.

5. Place lids on jars and screw on bands until fingertip tight.

🫧 Process in Water Bath

1. Place jars in a water bath canner with water covering the tops by at least 1 inch.

2. Bring to a boil and process for 10 minutes (adjust for altitude if needed).

3. Remove jars and let cool on a towel for 12–24 hours.

4. Check seals before storing.

📦 Storage

• Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.

• Allow pickles to cure for at least 2 weeks before eating for best flavor.

• Shelf life: Up to 1 year. Refrigerate after opening.

💡 Optional Add-Ins

• Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes per jar

• Bread & Butter Style: Add sugar and sweet onion slices for a sweeter twist

• Extra Crunch: Add a grape leaf or a pinch of tannin-rich tea leaves