Amish fry pies are a cherished culinary delight that hails from the Amish communities in the United States. Whether you are at the Haiti Auction in Mt. Hope, Ohio, the Berlin Harvest Festival, or any other event where the Amish have booths, you will find fried pies.
These handcrafted pastries, often referred to as “fried pies,” are filled with sweet and flavorful fillings and then deep-fried to perfection. With a rich history and a reputation for their scrumptious taste, Amish fry pies have become a beloved treat for both locals and visitors alike.
A Time-Honored Tradition
The roots of Amish fry pies can be traced back to the traditional Amish culture, which values simplicity, hard work, and homemade goods. These pies were initially made as a portable and delicious snack for farmworkers and travelers. The secret to their delectable taste lies in the generations-old family recipes, which have been passed down from one Amish kitchen to another. Today, Amish fry pies have gained popularity far beyond Amish communities, captivating the taste buds of people across the country.
Craftsmanship and Fresh Ingredients
What sets Amish fry pies apart is the remarkable craftsmanship that goes into their creation. Each pie is carefully handmade, ensuring that every step is meticulously executed. From rolling the dough to filling it with luscious fillings and sealing the edges, every pie is a labor of love. Traditional fillings include fruit flavors such as apple, peach, cherry, and blackberry, as well as creamy options like chocolate, vanilla, and peanut butter. These fillings are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, often sourced from local farms. The combination of flaky pastry and mouthwatering fillings makes Amish fry pies an irresistible treat.
Versatility and Variety
Amish fry pies offer a wide range of flavors and fillings to cater to different preferences. Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer something more savory, there is a fry pie for everyone. Some Amish communities also experiment with seasonal ingredients, introducing unique flavors like pumpkin, strawberry rhubarb, and blueberry during specific times of the year. Each bite reveals a burst of flavors, perfectly balanced with the tender pastry shell. To enhance the taste, many people enjoy topping their fry pies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
Preserving a Culinary Heritage
Amish fry pies not only satisfy our taste buds but also preserve a cherished culinary heritage. With their commitment to traditional recipes and cooking methods, the Amish community ensures that this culinary tradition continues to thrive. Despite the advancements in technology and the fast-paced nature of modern life, the Amish embrace the slower pace of making fry pies by hand. They remind us of the joy in savoring homemade treats and the importance of passing down treasured recipes through the generations.
Amish fry pies are a delicious testament to the Amish culture’s rich history and dedication to preserving culinary traditions. These handcrafted pies with their flaky crusts and irresistible fillings offer a delightful indulgence for all who taste them. Whether enjoyed as a dessert, a snack, or a breakfast treat, Amish fry pies have secured a special place in the hearts and palates of people across the United States. So, if you ever have the opportunity to try one of these delectable pastries, savor every bite and appreciate the love and care that goes into crafting these delightful treats.
Recipe for Amish Fry Pies:
Pie Dough:
2 C. white pastry flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1 T. sugar
6 T. butter
1/3 C. milk
1 egg yolk
Filling:
2 cups pie filling of choice
Icing:
2 T. warm water
1 T. corn syrup
1 tsp. vanilla
Powdered sugar until thickened to flowing consistency
Mix flour, salt, baking powder, sugar, and butter with pastry cutter until slightly lumpy. Beat egg yolk with milk and add to the flour mixture. Stir with fork and pat into a ball. Knead as little as possible. Form into 8-9 small balls. Roll out between two pieces of thick plastic. Fill with 1/4 cup pie filling. Fold over and press edges with tines of a fork. Moisten edges with egg whites before sealing. Deep fry at 375 degrees for two minutes, then glaze.
