When it comes to comfort food, few cuisines are more synonymous with warmth and nourishment than the Amish. For generations, the Amish have been perfecting traditional recipes that warm the hearts and bellies of their community. From sweet treats like sugar cookies and cinnamon rolls to hearty main courses like chicken pot pie and meatloaf, Amish cooking is all about using simple ingredients to create rich, satisfying flavors.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 heartwarming Amish recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. From classic dishes to creative twists on old traditions, these recipes showcase the best of Amish cuisine and its ability to bring people together around the table. So grab a cup of coffee (or a slice of shoofly pie!), get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of Amish comfort food!
Amish Friendship Bread
A classic recipe that’s been passed down through generations, Amish Friendship Bread is a simple yet delicious treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. This moist and flavorful bread is made with just a few ingredients and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, sugar, milk, oil, and eggs to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Amish Chicken Pot Pie
This classic Amish recipe combines tender chicken, flaky crust, and comforting vegetables in a warm, satisfying pie that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its rich flavors and homely charm, this pot pie is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic until vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill pie crust with chicken mixture and dot with butter.
6. Brush crust with beaten egg and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Amish Sugar Cookies
These tender and crumbly sugar cookies are a staple of Amish baking, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cream of tartar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Colored sprinkles or sanding sugar for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
3. Add softened butter and granulated sugar; beat until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Amish Cinnamon Rolls
These tender and flavorful rolls are a classic Amish treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a simple dough recipe and a generous helping of cinnamon sugar, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (see below)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Cinnamon Sugar:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let mixture sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add melted butter, flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one end. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Amish Macaroni Salad
A classic Amish recipe, this macaroni salad is a staple at many Pennsylvania Dutch gatherings and potlucks. Its creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped hard-boiled egg
– 1/4 cup chopped pickle relish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, egg, and pickle relish to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the bowl and toss until coated with dressing.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 8-10 minutes (for macaroni)
– Total time: 23-25 minutes
Amish Peanut Butter Pie
This classic Amish dessert is a staple at many family gatherings and community events. With its creamy peanut butter filling, flaky crust, and caramelized peanuts on top, it’s no wonder why this pie is a beloved favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped peanuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour filling into crust-lined pie dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of pie during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Amish Shoofly Pie
A classic Amish dessert, Shoofly Pie is a molasses-based delight that’s both rich and indulgent. This recipe yields a gooey, caramel-like filling topped with a crumbly crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter, mixing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the crust into a 9-inch square baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together molasses, eggs, and baking soda.
6. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Amish Broccoli Salad
Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
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A classic Amish-inspired salad that combines the crunch of broccoli with the creaminess of mayonnaise, all tied together with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli and onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added crunch.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 20 minutes
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Amish Potato Rolls
These tender and flavorful rolls are a staple of Amish baking, perfect for sopping up your favorite soups or stews. With the added richness of mashed potatoes, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup mashed potatoes (cooled)
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, mashed potatoes, yeast, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and beaten egg; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down dough; shape into 8-10 rolls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Amish Baked Oatmeal
This classic recipe brings a taste of simplicity and tradition to your breakfast table, with a deliciously moist and flavorful oatmeal dish that’s perfect for chilly mornings or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: raisins or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, milk, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Fold in diced apples and melted butter.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Enjoy your warm and comforting Amish Baked Oatmeal!
Amish Cornbread
This traditional Amish cornbread recipe is a staple of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, with its moist texture and slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for accompanying hearty meals or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, and buttermilk until smooth.
4. Add melted butter and whisk until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Amish Apple Butter
This traditional Amish apple butter recipe is a delicious spread perfect for topping toast, muffins, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 apples (any variety), peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Mash the apple mixture with a potato masher or fork to desired consistency.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter has thickened and reduced slightly.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total
Amish Doughnuts
This recipe yields a batch of soft, fluffy, and sweet Amish-style doughnuts that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Beat mixture until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
3. Add melted butter and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Cover dough with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down dough and turn into balls. Flatten each ball slightly into disk shapes.
7. Fry doughnuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil with slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Amish Soft Pretzels
These soft pretzels are a staple of Amish cuisine, and for good reason – they’re incredibly easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle shaping, you can create these soft, buttery treats in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 6 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let mixture 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 and elastic.
4. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into pretzel shape.
5. Place pretzels on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with melted butter.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-14 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Amish Whoopie Pies
A staple of Amish baking, whoopie pies are soft, moist cakes filled with a sweet and creamy filling. These traditional treats are perfect for snacking or serving at special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– Filling ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, oil, and eggs.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before filling with powdered sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on size)
Amish Chicken and Noodles
A classic Amish recipe, this hearty Chicken and Noodles dish is a staple of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Made with tender chicken, soft noodles, and rich flavors, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups homemade noodles (or 1 cup store-bought)
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and pour in chicken broth.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. While the chicken is cooking, boil noodles according to package instructions (or homemade recipe).
8. Serve chicken with noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Amish Buttermilk Pancakes
A traditional Amish breakfast staple, these fluffy pancakes are made with simple ingredients and a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk. Perfect for a cozy morning meal or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Optional: fresh fruit or maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and buttermilk to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Amish Pickled Beets
A classic Amish recipe that’s perfect for snacking or as a side dish, these pickled beets are sweet and tangy, with a depth of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh beets
– 1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and pepper. Stir to dissolve sugar and salt.
4. Add the sliced beets to the pickling liquid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to several days.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting), 24+ hours (pickling)
Amish Meatloaf
A hearty, comforting classic from the heartland of America, this Amish-inspired meatloaf is a staple of traditional cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, milk, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Top with chopped parsley.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Amish Blueberry Buckle
This moist and flavorful buckle is a classic Amish dessert that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Fresh blueberries are sweetened with sugar and flour, then topped with a crumbly oat mixture and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, blueberries, and vanilla extract; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
5. Mix oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the warm and comforting world of Amish cuisine with these 20 mouthwatering recipes. From sweet treats like Sugar Cookies and Cinnamon Rolls to savory delights such as Chicken Pot Pie and Meatloaf, these traditional dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Explore the rich flavors of Amish Friendship Bread, Shoofly Pie, and Apple Butter, or try your hand at making Soft Pretzels and Doughnuts. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and simple preparation methods, these recipes are perfect for comfort food lovers looking for a taste of classic Americana.
