Christmas Red Pickles Delight

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Christmas Red Pickles Delight.

1. Step 1

   Start by peeling the cucumbers and slicing them in half lengthwise.

2. Step 2

   Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, then cut each half into 1/4-inch half-circles.

3. Step 3

   Place these delightful cucumber pieces into a glass or ceramic crock, ready for their transformation.

4. Step 4

   Next, dissolve pickling lime in about 1 quart of room temperature water, creating a magical brine.

5. Step 5

   Pour this mixture over the cucumbers, then add enough additional water to cover them by about 1/2 inch.

6. Step 6

   Let this sit at room temperature for 24 hours, allowing the cucumbers to soak up all that goodness.

7. Step 7

   After a day of waiting, drain the cucumbers and give them a thorough rinse under cold water.

8. Step 8

   Return them to a large stockpot and cover with fresh cold water.

9. Step 9

   Let them sit at room temperature for another 3 hours, then drain and rinse once more to ensure they’re nice and clean.

10. Step 10

    Now, it’s time to bring the cucumbers back to the stockpot.

11. Step 11

    Add 1 cup of vinegar, a splash of red food coloring for that vibrant hue, alum, and enough water to cover the cucumbers by 1/2 inch.

12. Step 12

    Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 2 hours.

13. Step 13

    Once the cucumbers are tender and infused with flavor, drain them and let them cool slightly before transferring them back to the crock.

14. Step 14

    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, the remaining 2 cups of vinegar, 2 cups of water, cinnamon red hot candies, and cinnamon sticks.

15. Step 15

    Stir until the sugar and candies dissolve completely, creating a sweet and spicy syrup.

16. Step 16

    Pour this warm syrup over the cucumbers, cover the crock, and let the mixture sit for 8 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

17. Step 17

    When you’re ready to jar them up, pack the pickles into hot, sterilized pint jars, filling them to within 1/4 inch of the top.

18. Step 18

    Use a clean knife or thin spatula to gently remove any air bubbles, then wipe the rims of the jars with a moist paper towel to ensure a good seal.

19. Step 19

    Secure the lids tightly, and get ready for the next step.

20. Step 20

    Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill it halfway with water.

21. Step 21

    Bring the water to a boil, then carefully lower the jars into the bubbling water, making sure they’re spaced about 2 inches apart.

22. Step 22

    Add more boiling water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch.

23. Step 23

    Bring it back to a rolling boil, cover, and process for 15 to 20 minutes.

24. Step 24

    After processing, carefully remove the jars from the stockpot and let them rest several inches apart for 12 to 24 hours.

25. Step 25

    Press the center of each lid to check if it has sealed properly.

26. Step 26

    For storage, remove the rings and keep the jars in a cool, dark place.

27. Step 27

    If any jars haven’t sealed, simply refrigerate them.

28. Step 28

    Enjoy the satisfaction of your homemade pickles, perfect for snacking or adding a zesty touch to your meals!.