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–+ servings
Louisiana Hot Sweet Pickles
Louisiana Hot Sweet Pickles are a classic Southern refrigerator pickle recipe that beautifully balances sweet heat with tangy crunch. Popular throughout the Gulf Coast and Southern kitchens, recipes like this often transform ordinary sour pickles into an addictive sweet-and-spicy relish using only a few pantry staples. The combination of sugar and Tabasco creates a syrupy brine that slowly penetrates the pickles over several days, resulting in a bold flavor that pairs perfectly with sandwiches, barbecue, charcuterie boards, or holiday spreads. Their bright flavor and simple preparation have made these pickles a favorite for potlucks and gatherings, where their surprising sweet heat keeps everyone coming back for more.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Resting Time 2 days
Total Time 2 days 20 minutes
Course condiment
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 64
Calories 90 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 gallon sour pickles (drained and sliced)
  • 4 lb granulated sugar (about 9 cups)
  • 2 oz Tabasco sauce

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles

  • Drain the sour pickles completely.
  • Slice the pickles into rounds or chips.

Step 2: Make the Sweet-Spicy Mixture

  • In a large clean jar or food-safe container, combine the sugar and Tabasco sauce.
  • Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add the Pickles

  • Add the sliced pickles a little at a time.
  • Stir gently after each addition to coat the pickles.

Step 4: Rest the Pickles

  • Cover the container loosely.
  • Let the pickles sit at room temperature for 2 days, stirring occasionally if desired.

Step 5: Refrigerate and Serve

  • Refrigerate after the resting period.
  • Serve chilled and keep refrigerated.

Tips

  • Use dill pickle chips for easier serving.
  • Reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
  • Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Mix in sliced onions for a sweet pickle relish.
  • Use jalapeño hot sauce instead of Tabasco for a different flavor.
  • Stir the mixture daily during the resting period.
  • Store in sterilized jars for longer refrigerator life.
  • Serve with barbecue, burgers, or sandwiches.
  • Add garlic slices for extra savory flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 23gSodium: 320mgPotassium: 45mgSugar: 22gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword Cajun flavors, condiment, make-ahead, pickles, refrigerator pickles, Southern recipe, sweet and spicy, vintage recipe