Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of goodness, courtesy of the beloved Amish community. For generations, the Amish have been perfecting their culinary craft, creating dishes that are not only delicious but also deeply rooted in tradition and love. From classic comfort foods to sweet treats, we’ve gathered 20 of the most heartwarming Amish recipes to share with you.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to fuel your family or a decadent dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new favorites. And the best part? They’re all made with love and care, just like they would be in an Amish kitchen. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up some warmth and comfort with our collection of Amish recipes.
Amish Friendship Bread
In this beloved tradition, a mixture of flour, sugar, and yeast is passed from friend to friend, fostering a sense of community and warmth. This recipe yields a delicious, sweet bread with a subtle tang.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, flour, sugar, and yeast. Mix until smooth.
2. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 5-7 days, feeding it once a day by adding 1/2 cup of flour to the mixture.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans.
5. Remove the starter from the refrigerator and add 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix well.
6. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Amish Chicken Pot Pie
This traditional Amish recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flaky crust to create a satisfying comfort food dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in butter until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, salt, pepper, and paprika; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens.
5. Roll out pie crust and fill with the chicken mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Amish Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are a staple of Amish baking tradition, perfect for snacking or sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Amish Cinnamon Bread
This classic Amish recipe yields a tender and aromatic bread filled with the sweetness of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, egg, and cinnamon.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in milk and stir until a smooth batter forms.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Amish Broccoli Salad
This classic Amish broccoli salad is a staple at family gatherings and potlucks. A perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheese, onion, and raisins.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (chilling time)
Amish Shoofly Pie
Shoofly pie, a beloved tradition among the Amish community, is a rich and gooey molasses-based dessert that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations and remains a staple in many Amish households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine molasses, corn syrup, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and salt until dissolved.
4. Add melted butter, eggs, and flour. Mix until smooth.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Amish Macaroni Salad
A classic Amish recipe, this macaroni salad is a staple at many family gatherings and church picnics. With its creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, it’s a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as celery, onion, and bell peppers)
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup chopped hard-boiled egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, mayonnaise, chopped egg, and parsley.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the bowl and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (not including chilling time)
Amish Peanut Butter Pie
This classic Amish dessert is a staple of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, with its rich peanut butter filling and crumbly crust. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Add peanut butter and mix until well combined.
4. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Bake crust for 10 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, beat powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Pour filling over baked crust.
8. Top with whipped cream.
9. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Amish Cornbread
A warm, crumbly, and savory cornbread that’s a staple of Amish cuisine, perfect for accompanying hearty meals or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, buttermilk, and oil.
4. Add the egg to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Amish Potato Rolls
These soft, fluffy potato rolls are a staple of Amish cuisine, perfect for accompanying hearty meals or as a snack on their own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup instant mashed potatoes
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, instant mashed potatoes, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into rolls.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Amish Baked Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm, comforting bowl of Amish Baked Oatmeal, made with rolled oats, sweet spices, and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm, topped with your favorite fruits or nuts.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Amish Apple Butter
For generations, Amish communities have cherished their tradition of making apple butter, a sweet and tangy spread that’s perfect for topping toast, biscuits, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. This recipe captures the essence of this beloved treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs apples (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
3. In a large pot, combine the apples, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Return the pot to low heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 hours or until the apple butter reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Amish Soft Pretzels
This classic recipe yields a batch of soft, buttery pretzels that are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 6 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Twist the rope into a pretzel shape, tucking ends under the twists. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Amish Whoopie Pies
A classic Amish treat, these moist and creamy whoopie pies are a perfect dessert for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until smooth.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Allow whoopie pies to cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Amish Chicken and Noodles
This traditional Amish recipe combines tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich broth for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a cozy evening at home with family or friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups of homemade egg noodles (or store-bought)
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of chicken broth (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate large pot, sauté the chicken in butter until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Serve the chicken and noodles together, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Amish Doughnuts
These tender and fluffy doughnuts are a staple of Amish cuisine, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat anytime. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, and yeast. Stir until smooth.
2. Add vegetable oil, salt, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough and cut into desired shapes.
8. Fry doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
9. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Amish Cabbage Rolls
A classic Pennsylvania Dutch dish, these tender cabbage rolls are filled with ground pork and rice, simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head, blanch for 5 minutes, and drain.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Place about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll up tightly, seam-side down.
5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the rolls on all sides. Transfer to a baking dish, top with crushed tomatoes, and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Amish Buttermilk Pancakes
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful pancakes, a staple of Amish cuisine. Made with buttermilk, these pancakes have a tangy twist that sets them apart from others.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter, cooled
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Amish Egg Noodles
Classic Amish Egg Noodles Recipe
Experience the warm comfort of homemade egg noodles with this simple recipe inspired by traditional Amish cooking. Perfect for accompanying hearty stews, soups, or served as a standalone side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flours and salt.
2. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add eggs.
3. Gradually incorporate flour from the edges into the egg mixture, until dough forms.
4. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope shape.
6. Cut noodles into desired lengths (e.g., 1/4 inch or thinner).
7. Cook noodles in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Amish Vanilla Pie
Savor the classic flavors of Amish country with this traditional vanilla pie recipe, perfect for family gatherings and community potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 heartwarming Amish recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From sweet treats like Sugar Cookies and Peanut Butter Pie to savory dishes like Chicken Pot Pie and Cabbage Rolls, this collection has something for everyone. Indulge in comfort food classics like Macaroni Salad, Cornbread, and Soft Pretzels, or try your hand at traditional Amish baked goods like Friendship Bread and Shoofly Pie. With these easy-to-make recipes, you’ll be serving up warmth and love in no time!
