Cinnamon Cucumber Rings: A Sweet & Spicy Surprise

My grandmother, bless her heart, had a garden that was both a source of pride and an occasional source of…overabundance. One summer, cucumbers seemed to explode from the vines, and she was determined not to let a single one go to waste. That’s when she unearthed this unexpected recipe. The sweet, spicy, and surprisingly addictive Cinnamon Cucumber Rings were born, turning what most would consider a savory vegetable into a delightful treat that always sparked conversation and a whole lot of “Just one more!”

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 96 hours 20 minutes
• Cook Time: Variable (simmering + reheating)
• Total Time: 96 hours 20 minutes + Cooking Times
• Yields: 6 Pints
• Dietary Type: Can be made Vegan/Vegetarian (check red-hot candies)

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 lbs large cucumbers, peeled and deseeded
• 1 cup pickling lime
• 8 cups water
• 3 cups vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon alum
• 1/2 ounce red food coloring
• 2 1/2 lbs sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 cup red-hot candies (check ingredients for vegetarian/vegan suitability)
• 1 gallon glass container

Equipment Needed

• Large glass container
• Large pot for simmering
• Jars for canning (pint-sized recommended)
• Canning equipment (optional, for hot water bath processing)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the cucumbers. Slice them 1/4 inch thick and then cut the slices into chunks or rings, similar to how you might prepare pineapple slices.

2. In the glass container, thoroughly mix the pickling lime and water. Ensure the lime is fully dissolved.

3. Pour the lime-water mixture over the cucumber slices, ensuring they are completely submerged. Let them soak for 24 hours. This process helps to firm up the cucumbers for pickling.

4. After the initial soaking, drain the cucumbers thoroughly. Rinse them repeatedly with cold water, and drain again several times to remove all traces of the lime.

5. Cover the cucumbers with fresh, cold water and let them soak for 3 hours. This step helps remove any lingering lime flavor. Drain well after soaking.

6. In a separate pot, prepare a simmering liquid. Combine 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/2 tablespoon alum, red food coloring, and 1 cup water. Add the cucumbers to this mixture and add more water to completely cover them.

7. Simmer the cucumbers in the colored liquid for 2 hours. Keep a close eye to make sure they don’t overcook and become mushy. After simmering, drain the cucumbers.

8. Now, prepare the cinnamon syrup. In a large pot, combine 1 cup vinegar, 1 cup water, 2 1/2 cups sugar, and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Add the red-hot candies. Heat the mixture until the sugar is dissolved, stirring occasionally. Note: the red hots may be difficult to melt, so you might want to melt them separately in a small amount of liquid before adding them to the rest of the mixture.

9. Pour the hot cinnamon syrup over the drained cucumbers. Let them stand in the syrup for 24 hours.

10. Over the next 2 days, drain the liquid from the cucumbers each day. Reheat the liquid just to boiling (do not boil vigorously!), and then pour it back over the cucumbers. Allow to stand for 24 hours each time. This repeated draining and re-infusion helps to ensure the cucumbers are thoroughly saturated with the cinnamon flavor.

11. On the 3rd day, reheat the cucumbers and liquid together. Gently bring the mixture to a simmer. Remove any cinnamon sticks that may have been added for extra flavor (not in original list, but this recipe suggests cinnamon sticks so will include here for the cinnamon to be removed).

12. Finally, process the cinnamon cucumber rings in a hot water bath for 15 minutes for long-term storage. Alternatively, you can store them in the refrigerator if you prefer not to can them.
    If canning, ensure proper head space (usually 1/2 inch) and follow safe canning practices.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip the lime soak! It’s crucial for firming the cucumbers and preventing them from becoming mushy during the cooking process.
• Melting red-hot candies: These can be stubborn! Melting them separately in a little bit of the vinegar-sugar mixture ensures they fully dissolve and evenly distribute their flavor.
• Gentle Simmering: Avoid a rolling boil during simmering stages. A gentle simmer will preserve the cucumbers’ texture and prevent them from becoming overly soft.
• Canning Alternative: If canning is not your cup of tea, the cinnamon cucumber rings will keep well in the refrigerator for several weeks. Just make sure they are stored in an airtight container.
• Cinnamon Sticks: For an even deeper cinnamon flavor, add a few cinnamon sticks to the syrup during the simmering and soaking stages. Remove them before canning or storing.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Cinnamon Cucumber Rings make a unique and delightful addition to any appetizer spread. Their sweet and spicy flavor pairs surprisingly well with sharp cheeses, cured meats, and even grilled seafood. For a festive touch, arrange them artfully on a platter, perhaps alongside some crackers and a creamy dip.

If you chose to can your Cinnamon Cucumber Rings, they can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, they should be refrigerated. If you opted for refrigerator storage from the start, they will keep for several weeks. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming. Reheating is not necessary; these are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	795.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	N/A
Total Fat	0.3 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0.1 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	19.2 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	199.7 g	66%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	8%
Sugars	193.1 g	N/A
Protein	1.8 g	3%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: For a more intense flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dried chili flakes to the cinnamon syrup.
• Apple Rings: As suggested from the blog post, thinly sliced apple rings can be substituted for the cucumbers using the exact same recipe.
• Zucchini Rings: Another variation suggested, for a less sweet version, zucchini could be used in place of cucumbers, though the flavor and texture will naturally be different.
• Vegan Option: Ensure the red-hot candies you choose are vegan, as some brands contain gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients.
• Sugar Substitute: While it will alter the flavor and texture, you could experiment with using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Adjust the quantity according to the sweetener’s instructions.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Why do I need to soak the cucumbers in pickling lime?
A: The pickling lime helps to firm up the cucumbers, which prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy during the simmering and canning process. It also aids in preserving their crispness.

Q: Can I skip the red food coloring?
A: Yes, the red food coloring is purely for aesthetic purposes. If you prefer a more natural look, you can omit it altogether. The flavor will not be affected.

Q: The red-hot candies are hard to melt. What can I do?
A: Try melting the red-hot candies separately in a small saucepan with a little bit of the vinegar and sugar mixture. Stir constantly over low heat until they are fully dissolved before adding them to the rest of the syrup.

Q: How long will the canned Cinnamon Cucumber Rings last?
A: If properly canned in a hot water bath, the Cinnamon Cucumber Rings can last for up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated.

Q: Can I use smaller cucumbers?
A: Yes, you can use smaller cucumbers, but be sure to adjust the slicing and cooking times accordingly. Smaller cucumbers may require less simmering time.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Cucumber Rings are more than just a recipe; they’re a conversation starter, a burst of unexpected flavor, and a testament to the ingenuity of turning an abundant garden crop into something truly special. I encourage you to try this recipe and discover the surprising harmony of sweet, spicy, and cucumbery goodness. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and share your creations with friends and family. I guarantee it will be a hit!