Canning Pickles

**s.nev** · 08-11-2011, 10:26 AM

I'm using a recipe for microwave bread and butter pickles that makes one jar at a time. I'm using canning jars, new flat lids, old rings. The recipe says to keep pickles in the refrigerator. That doesn't seem necessary to me since there is vinegar, and jars are sealed tightly with new lids. What do you think? I thought maybe I could refrigerate until cool, then store on a pantry shelf.

**Spirit Deer** · 08-11-2011, 11:51 AM

I take it you're not processing the pickles in a canner.

Follow the recipe. Processing helps kill germs. Just getting the lid to seal won't do it. Keep the jar in the fridge as directed.

**frugalfranny** · 08-12-2011, 05:19 PM

Originally Posted by s.nev

I thought maybe I could refrigerate until cool, then store on a pantry shelf.

Agree with other poster...............pantry shelf will still allow things to germinate and grow..............you don't store the 'store bought' pickles on the shelf.....DO YOU???......sure wouldn't do any homemade ones.

Vinegar is good...........but not a miracle worker..........

**heartofmine** · 08-13-2011, 08:52 PM

Sounds like you are making the recipe for refrigerator pickles. You have to keep those in the refrigerator. BTW those are my favorite pickles ever. My mom makes them.

**Josephhgoins** · 08-14-2011, 08:49 AM

I have never had a recipe for pickles that called for processing in either a water bath canner or a pressure cooker.

The pickles have sugar and vinegar, both of which are preservatives. They also have spices which also add to their preservative effect.

I would say they would be fine, but you may want to just check out another recipe and see what it says for storage?