Start by giving the cucumbers a good wash. Then, slice off the ends and cut them into your preferred pickle shape – whether it's spears, chips, or rounds. The key here is to keep the sizes consistent for even flavor.
Next, mix water, white vinegar, brown sugar, cloves, allspice berries, and a cinnamon stick in a big pot. Bring it to a gentle boil until the sugar melts completely. Let it cool to room temperature afterward.
Place the cucumber slices in a large bowl and sprinkle kosher salt generously over them. Gently toss them and let them sit for an hour. This step helps draw out extra water, ensuring your pickles are nice and crisp.
In a separate bowl, blend granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard seeds, and celery seeds until the sugar dissolves completely.
Rinse the salted cucumbers well and transfer them to clean sterilized jars. Pour the pickling mixture over them, making sure they're fully covered. Then, add the spiced brine into the jars.
Throw fresh dill sprigs and thin slices of red onion into each jar for an added flavor boost. Seal the jars tightly and gently shake to mix everything evenly.
Now, it's time to exercise some patience! Place the jars in a cool, dark spot and resist the urge to open them for at least a week. The real magic happens as the flavors blend, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
After waiting, crack open a jar to reveal your homemade Sweet Amish Pickles. The crisp texture and the delightful mix of spices pay homage to the timeless artistry of Amish cooking traditions.