The Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe is tangy, sweet and perfectly spicy. It turns simple cucumbers into a delicious snack or side dish.
Today, I will show you how to make Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe at home.
Using easy ingredients for Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe, you can recreate that famous flavor in your kitchen. This recipe is quick, fun and perfect for pickle lovers.
Why I Love Making This Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles
I love making these pickles on weekends when I want a tasty snack. The sweet and spicy taste is so addictive. It reminds me of visiting Famous Dave’s and tasting them fresh.
Making them at home is cheaper and more fun. I enjoy storing them in jars and serving with sandwiches or burgers.The combination of sugar, vinegar and chili creates a perfect balance.
Every bite has crunch and flavor. My friends always ask for extra jars when I share them. These pickles make any meal feel exciting.
Equipment List
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Jar or container for storing
- Measuring cups and spoons
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Course: Side / Snack
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 50 kcal per serving
Ingredients You Need for Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe
- 4 cups sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly or into rounds. Place the slices into a clean bowl. Make sure all slices are even for consistent flavor and texture.
2. Make the Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar and salt. Heat over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. The brine will be warm and ready to soak the cucumbers.
3. Add Spices
Add crushed red pepper, mustard seeds, garlic and black pepper to the brine. Stir well. This will give the pickles their signature sweet and spicy flavor.
4. Pour Brine Over Cucumbers
Carefully pour the hot brine over cucumber slices. Make sure all pieces are submerged. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to start absorbing flavor.
5. Cool and Store
Allow pickles to cool completely. Transfer them into a jar or container. Seal tightly and refrigerate. For best flavor, wait at least 2 hours before serving. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve these pickles with burgers, sandwiches or as a snack. They taste great cold or straight from the jar. Now you know exactly how to make Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe.
Read More: Mary Berry Rainbow Coleslaw Recipe
Expert Tips & Variations
- Adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat.
- Add a few slices of jalapeño for extra spice.
- Use honey instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
- Add fresh dill for extra flavor.
- Store in airtight jar for longer shelf life.
- These pickles also work as a topping for tacos or hot dogs.
History or Fun Fact About the Dish
Pickles have been part of American cuisine for centuries. Famous Dave’s popularized their sweet and spicy version. Famous Dave’s made it a signature item.
Sweet and spicy pickles are loved for balancing rich, smoky barbecue flavors. Making them at home lets you enjoy the classic taste anytime.
Pairings & Complementary Recipes
These pickles pair wonderfully with grilled meats. Try them with pulled pork, ribs or cheeseburgers.
They also go well with fried chicken and sandwiches. Add them to charcuterie boards for an extra kick. They are versatile and easy to include in many dishes.
Occasion or Event Ideas
The Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe is perfect for summer BBQs. It works for casual family dinners or picnic snacks.
I often make a large batch for game nights. Everyone enjoys their sweet, tangy and spicy crunch. They make any meal more fun and flavorful.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store pickles in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Keep them in airtight jars or containers.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even flavor.
- Do not heat; serve cold for best taste.
- Label jars with date for reference.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Health Benefits
Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, helping hydration. Vinegar may help support digestion and stabilize blood sugar. Garlic adds antioxidants and boosts immune system.
While sugar adds sweetness, using moderate amounts keeps this snack healthier than many processed options.
Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 garlic cloves sliced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumbers
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly or into rounds. Place the slices into a clean bowl. Make sure all slices are even for consistent flavor and texture.
Make the Brine
- In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar and salt. Heat over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. The brine will be warm and ready to soak the cucumbers.
Add Spices
- Add crushed red pepper, mustard seeds, garlic and black pepper to the brine. Stir well. This will give the pickles their signature sweet and spicy flavor.
Pour Brine Over Cucumbers
- Carefully pour the hot brine over cucumber slices. Make sure all pieces are submerged. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to start absorbing flavor.
Cool and Store
- Allow pickles to cool completely. Transfer them into a jar or container. Seal tightly and refrigerate. For best flavor, wait at least 2 hours before serving. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve these pickles with burgers, sandwiches or as a snack. They taste great cold or straight from the jar. Now you know exactly how to make Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes for more or less heat.
- Add a few slices of jalapeño for extra spice.
- Use honey instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
- Add fresh dill for extra flavor.
- Store in airtight jar for longer shelf life.
- These pickles also work as a topping for tacos or hot dogs.
FAQs about Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe
1. Can I make these pickles ahead of time?
Yes, they taste even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. Make them a day before serving for deeper flavor.
2. Can I use fresh dill in this recipe?
Yes, adding fresh dill gives a more classic pickle aroma. Use a few sprigs when pouring brine over cucumbers.
3. How spicy are these pickles?
They have a mild to moderate heat depending on red pepper flakes. Adjust spice to your taste preference easily.
4. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar gives a slightly fruity tang. The pickles will still taste sweet and spicy but with subtle variation.
5. How long do these pickles last in the fridge?
They can last up to 2 weeks. Keep them in airtight jars and always refrigerate for freshness.
Final Thoughts
The Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe is easy, tangy and addictive. Now you know how to make Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe with simple steps.
The ingredients for Famous Dave’s Sweet and Spicy Pickles Recipe are basic but deliver bold flavor. Try it once and these pickles may become your favorite snack or side for every meal.
Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.