Vlasic Pickle Copycat Recipe: Make Crispy, Tangy Pickles Right at Home

I remember the first time I bit into a crisp Vlasic pickle—the tangy flavor instantly brightened up my sandwich. There’s something magical about recreating a favorite store-bought snack right in your own kitchen. With this Vlasic Pickle copycat recipe, you won’t miss that crunchy, zesty bite.

Ingredients

• 8 small pickling cucumbers
• Wash thoroughly and trim the ends
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups white distilled vinegar
• 1/4 cup pickling salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cloves garlic
• Peeled and lightly smashed
• 2 tablespoons dill seeds
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes(optional for a spicy kick)

Equipment

To recreate Vlasic pickles in my kitchen, I make sure I have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Mixing Bowl

I use this to combine the cucumbers with the brine and spices.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors.

• Saucepan

I heat the water, vinegar, sugar, and salt in a saucepan to create the brine.

• Fermentation Jars

Mason jars work perfectly for storing and fermenting the pickles.

• Knife and Cutting Board

Essential for slicing cucumbers and chopping garlic.

• Tongs or Utensil

To place the cucumbers into the jars and ensure they’re fully submerged.

• Clean Cloth or Paper Towel

I cover the jars to keep out dust while allowing airflow during fermentation.

Having these tools ready makes the pickling process smooth and enjoyable, allowing me to focus on capturing that classic Vlasic crunch and zest.

Preparation

Let’s dive into preparing our Vlasic Pickle copycat recipe. Follow these steps to ensure your pickles turn out perfectly crunchy and flavorful.

Wash and Slice the Cucumbers

1. Select Fresh Cucumbers

• Choose small pickling cucumbers about 4-5 inches long for the best crunch.

1. Thoroughly Wash

• Rinse the cucumbers under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues.

1. Trim the Ends

• Cut off both ends of each cucumber using a sharp knife to ensure even pickling.

1. Slice the Cucumbers

• Depending on your preference, slice the cucumbers into spears or 1/4-inch thick rounds.

Prepare the Brine Solution

1. Measure the Ingredients

1. Combine Ingredients

• In a large saucepan, add water, white distilled vinegar, pickling salt, and granulated sugar.

1. Heat the Brine

• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve completely.

1. Add Spices

• Once the brine is boiling, remove it from heat and stir in garlic cloves, dill seeds, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.

1. Cool the Brine

• Allow the brine to cool to room temperature before pouring it over the sliced cucumbers in your fermentation jars.

Instructions

Recreating the perfect Vlasic pickle is all about precision and love for the craft. Follow these steps to achieve that signature crunch and tangy zest.

Combine Cucumbers and Brine

1. Prepare the Cucumbers

• Start with 4 cups of fresh, small pickling cucumbers.
• Wash them thoroughly under cold water.
• Trim the ends and slice them into spears or rounds based on your preference.

1. Make the Brine

• In a saucepan, combine:
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup white distilled vinegar
• 2 tablespoons pickling salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve completely.

1. Add the Spices

• Once the brine is clear, remove it from heat.
• Stir in:
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 tablespoon dill seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Let the brine cool to room temperature.

1. Combine Cucumbers and Brine

• Place the prepared cucumbers into a large mixing bowl.
• Pour the cooled brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged.
• Use a clean utensil to gently toss the cucumbers, making sure they soak evenly in the brine.

Ferment the Pickles

1. Prepare the Jars

• Take 2 clean Mason jars and divide the cucumbers evenly between them.
• Pour the brine and spice mixture over the cucumbers in each jar.

1. Seal the Jars

• Place a clean cloth or paper towel over the opening of each jar.
• Secure the cloth with a rubber band to keep out dust and insects while allowing gases to escape during fermentation.

1. Fermentation Process

• Store the jars in a cool, dark place at room temperature.
• Allow the cucumbers to ferment for 3 to 5 days.
• Check daily to ensure the cucumbers remain submerged. If any float to the top, use a clean utensil to push them back into the brine.

1. Monitor the Flavor

• Taste the pickles after 3 days. They should be tangy and crunchy.
• If you prefer a stronger flavor, let them ferment for up to 5 days.

Store and Refrigerate

1. Finalize the Pickles

• Once the desired fermentation is achieved, remove the cloths and secure the jars with their lids.

1. Refrigerate

• Transfer the sealed jars to the refrigerator.
• Chill for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

1. Enjoy

• Your homemade Vlasic-style pickles are now ready to enjoy!
• They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months, maintaining their crunch and vibrant taste.

Make-Ahead Steps

Preparing some components ahead of time can streamline the pickling process and enhance the overall flavor of your Vlasic-style pickles. Here are the steps you can take in advance:

1. Wash and Prep the Cucumbers

• Select fresh, small pickling cucumbers.
• Thoroughly wash them under cold water.
• Trim the ends and slice into spears or rounds.
• Place the sliced cucumbers in a clean container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to maintain crunchiness.

1. Measure and Combine the Spices

• Gather dill seeds, mustard seeds, garlic cloves, whole peppercorns, and red pepper flakes.
• Measure each spice accurately.
• Store the mixed spices in an airtight container until ready to use.

1. Prepare the Brine

• Measure the water, white distilled vinegar, pickling salt, and granulated sugar.
• Combine the ingredients in a saucepan.
• Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve completely.
• Remove from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.
• Once cooled, transfer the brine to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to one week.

1. Sterilize the Jars

• Wash your fermentation jars or Mason jars thoroughly.
• Sterilize them by boiling in water for 10 minutes.
• Remove the jars and let them dry completely.
• Keep the sterilized jars covered with a clean cloth or paper towel until you’re ready to use them.

1. Organize Your Workspace

• Gather all necessary equipment including measuring cups, spoons, a large mixing bowl, and utensils.
• Ensure your cutting board and knife are clean and ready for use.
• Having everything organized in advance makes the pickling process more efficient and enjoyable.

By completing these make-ahead steps, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and successful pickling experience, allowing you to enjoy homemade Vlasic-style pickles with minimal preparation on the day of pickling.

Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve perfected your homemade Vlasic-style pickles, the possibilities for serving them are endless. Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate these tangy delights into your meals:

Sandwiches and Burgers

Add a crunchy, zesty kick to your favorite sandwiches and burgers. Whether it’s a classic cheeseburger, a hearty deli sandwich, or a gourmet veggie burger, these pickles elevate the flavors and provide a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Charcuterie Boards

Enhance your charcuterie board by including a variety of homemade pickles. Pair them with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and nuts for a well-rounded and visually appealing spread. The vibrant green of the pickles adds a pop of color that complements the other ingredients.

Snack Platters

Serve the pickles alongside other snacks like pretzels, chips, and fresh vegetables. They make a perfect low-calorie, flavorful addition that satisfies cravings between meals.

Grilled Dishes

Incorporate pickles into your grilling repertoire. Top grilled chicken, steak, or veggie skewers with pickle slices for an extra layer of flavor. The acidity of the pickles balances the smoky taste from the grill.

Cocktail Pairings

Use your homemade pickles as a tasty accompaniment to cocktails. They pair exceptionally well with drinks like Bloody Marys, craft beers, and even certain wines. The briny flavor complements and enhances the beverage experience.

Pickle Relish

Transform some of your pickles into a delicious relish. Chop them finely and mix with fresh herbs and a touch of mustard for a versatile condiment that can be used on hot dogs, burgers, or as a dip for fries.

Gift Jars

Fill sterilized jars with your homemade pickles and present them as thoughtful gifts. Add a personalized label and a ribbon for a charming homemade present that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with these serving ideas. Homemade Vlasic-style pickles are a versatile addition to any meal, bringing that perfect balance of crunch and tang to your culinary creations.

Storage Guidelines

Once you’ve perfected your Vlasic-style pickles, proper storage ensures they remain crunchy and flavorful. Here’s how I keep my homemade pickles at their best:

Refrigeration

Store your pickles in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness and vibrant taste. The cold environment slows down the fermentation process, preserving the desired flavor profile.

Storage Containers

Use airtight containers to keep your pickles fresh. I prefer Mason jars because they seal tightly and prevent any air from compromising the pickles’ texture.

Duration

Tips for Maintaining Crunch

• Keep Pickles Submerged: Ensure the cucumbers remain fully covered in brine. I use clean utensils to press them down if necessary.
• Avoid Contamination: Always use clean hands or utensils when handling pickles to prevent introducing bacteria.
• Label Jars: Mark each jar with the preparation date. This helps track freshness and ensures you enjoy them within the optimal timeframe.

Cooling Environment

Store the jars in a cool, dark part of your refrigerator. Consistent temperatures help maintain the pickles’ texture and prevent unwanted flavors from developing.

By following these storage guidelines, your homemade Vlasic-style pickles will stay delicious and crunchy, ready to enhance your meals whenever you crave that classic tangy bite.

Conclusion

Making these Vlasic-style pickles has been a fun journey for me. There’s something special about crafting your own crunchy and tangy snacks right in your kitchen.

I hope you enjoy the process as much as the pickles themselves. Whether you’re adding them to your favorite sandwich or sharing them with friends, these homemade pickles are sure to bring a burst of flavor to any meal.