Cinnamon Pickle Rings

Step 1

Peel and slice cucumbers 1/2" thick. Create ring by cutting out middle with melon baller. You will need 1/2 gallon of rings.

Step 2

In a large pot, combine 1/2 cup pickling lime with 2 1/8 gallons water. Stir until fully combined. Add cucumbers and soat for 24 hours. Drain and rinse well. Return cucumber rings to pot.

Step 3

Combine 1/4 cup vinegar, 1/4 Tbsp alum and red food coloring, if using. Add to pot with cucumber rings. Then, add enough water to cover the cucumbers. Bring to boil and then simmer for 2 hours. Drain and discard liquid.

Step 4

In a large pot, heat 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 3 cups sugar, 3 cinnamon sticks and 1/2 cup red hots, stirring until sugar is fully dissolved. Turn off heat and add cucumber rings. Cover and let sit 2 hours.

Step 5

Transfer cucumber rings to jars. Add liquid about half full. Store in refrigerator or follow directions for preserving in jars.