Recent Posts

World’s Largest Amish Shopping Mall: Schrock’s Heritage Village

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish travel

Schrock’s Heritage Village.

World’s Largest Amish Shopping Mall: Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country lies an expansive haven for shoppers and explorers alike—Schrock’s Heritage Village in Millersburg, Ohio. Spanning an impressive 50 acres, this village stands as a testament to Amish craftsmanship and culture, boasting a collection of shops that offer an unparalleled range of goods, from handcrafted furniture to seasonal decorations, leather shoes, and cherished antiques. It’s no wonder it holds the prestigious title of the World’s Largest Amish Shopping Mall, as recognized by the esteemed WORLD RECORD ACADEMY.

The allure of Schrock’s Heritage Village extends far beyond its sheer size. A journey through this sprawling complex reveals a treasure trove of specialized shops catering to diverse interests. Craft enthusiasts flock to the craft mall, while antique aficionados find solace in the antique mall, discovering vintage furniture and classic glassware that breathe history into modern spaces.

But it’s not just about the shopping experience; it’s a day-long adventure. Visitors are encouraged to strategize their itinerary, ensuring they don’t miss the Berlin Craft Mall, a haven for artists and admirers of functional artistry. Here, handmade decor and top-notch craft supplies await, showcasing the Amish commitment to quality and beauty.

For those craving sustenance amidst their shopping escapades, Olde World Bistro and Bakery serve up hearty, home-cooked meals that replenish energy. From chicken alfredo to delectable meatloaf, these dishes are a perfect complement to the famous cinnamon rolls and cookies that beckon from the bakery section.

Schrock’s Heritage Village is more than just a commercial enterprise—it’s a family-owned establishment that has thrived since 1991. The official website warmly invites families to revel in the unique offerings, from cuddling puppies at Berlin Pets to exploring the artisanal delights at Berlin Craft Mall. And let’s not forget the aromatic shelves of Streb’s General Store, brimming with tantalizing jams and treats that infuse any kitchen with the essence of Amish baking.

Surrounded by picturesque ponds and serene wooded areas, Schrock’s Heritage Village provides a serene respite from the bustling city life. Its year-round appeal beckons tourists and locals alike, drawing them into a world where time slows down, allowing families to create lasting memories.

Ohio’s Amish Country itself stands as a testament to a rich cultural tapestry. It’s the second-largest Amish community globally, with Holmes County serving as its epicenter. This county boasts the highest concentration of Amish residents in any US county, making it a unique and vibrant cultural hub. With a community that comprises half of the county’s population, it’s no surprise that the Amish influence permeates every facet of life here, contributing significantly to the region’s economy and drawing tourists year after year.


Visitors to Schrock’s Heritage Village find themselves immersed in a cultural mosaic, where every shop tells a story and every corner reveals a piece of Amish heritage. The village pulsates with the rhythm of craftsmanship, showcasing not just products, but the dedication and skill of artisans passed down through generations.

The village’s strategic location within Ohio’s Amish Country underscores its significance. This region, known for its tranquil landscapes and a slower pace of life, captivates with its authenticity. Holmes County, in particular, stands as a testament to the Amish way of life, where traditions and community intertwine seamlessly. Here, the Amish constitute not just a population but the beating heart of a vibrant society.

Beyond its commercial appeal, Schrock’s Heritage Village offers an educational insight into Amish culture. Visitors can witness the intricate details of handmade goods, understanding the meticulous process behind each creation. It’s a journey that fosters appreciation for the artistry and dedication embedded in every piece.

And while the village is a haven for shoppers, it’s equally a refuge for families seeking quality time. The serene surroundings, coupled with a variety of activities and shops catering to diverse interests, create an environment conducive to bonding and exploration.

Ohio’s Amish Country, with its picturesque landscapes and rich heritage, beckons travelers seeking an escape from the ordinary. The bucolic charm, coupled with the warmth of its people, offers an experience that transcends mere tourism—it’s an immersion into a way of life that cherishes simplicity, craftsmanship, and community.

Schrock’s Heritage Village stands as a beacon within this landscape—a testament to the Amish ethos of hard work, dedication, and preserving traditions. It’s not just a shopping destination; it’s a living testament to a culture that continues to thrive amidst the ever-changing tides of modernity.

For those seeking an escape into a world far removed from the hustle and bustle, Schrock’s Heritage Village in Millersburg, Ohio, offers an invitation—a chance to step into a realm where time slows down, where craftsmanship is revered, and where every purchase carries with it a piece of a rich cultural legacy. In the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, this village stands tall as a testament to tradition, inviting all who enter to become a part of its enduring story.

Conveniently located near Berlin, Schrock’s Heritage Village is not merely a shopping destination; it’s an immersive experience that invites visitors to embrace Amish traditions and craftsmanship. Its year-round offerings, coupled with its scenic beauty, make it an essential stop for anyone seeking to explore the rich heritage of Ohio’s Amish Country. Whether for a leisurely day of shopping or an escape into a world steeped in culture, this iconic village promises an unforgettable journey.

Reviews from TripAdvisor

“Excellent in every way, location, location, location! Very clean, lovely kitchen to do basic cooking in, comfortable furniture, quiet peaceful setting.”

woman wearing an amish cap looking afar
Photo by Chris F on Pexels.com

“Interesting place to visit! A lot of items to browse, takes awhile to walk around and look at everything. We enjoyed looking at the antiques and the handmade items for sale.”

“We love this area. Especially the large antique mall. The Christmas store is great !!! They personalize ornaments and they look great. The antique store is our favorite. There’s also a diner , pet store, western west and mini golf. Great place to stop.”

“a lot of variety of items. It is very clean. employees very helpful and kind. Has alot to see and reasonable prices.”

“Excellent shopping for antiques, crafts, leather, and fabric/quilt shop!! The Christmas store is overwhelming.“

The World’s Largest Amish Man Statue

Written by Dennis Regling in Travel

The World's Largest Amish Man Statue

“Discovering the Journey of the World’s Largest Amish Man Statue in Milford, Delaware”

In a small town in Milford, Delaware, stands a remarkable figure that has journeyed through various locations, capturing the essence of Amish culture in its towering presence. The World’s Largest Amish Man Statue, affectionately known as “The Big Man,” has a storied past that intertwines with multiple establishments, reflecting the community’s resilience and enduring spirit.

Crafted by Rod Shutt, this monumental 20-foot-tall fiberglass statue was first introduced to the public eye at Dempsey’s Diner in New Castle, DE. However, its travels were far from over. Weathering the force of a hurricane in 2003, the statue faced repairs before finding a temporary home at Perry’s Pantry in Dover, later known as the Country Pantry.

The statue’s journey continued, making stops at various locations, including Shirey’s Car Sales in Milford and Dover. Along the way, it underwent transformations, from changes in its shirt color to movements between storage and different installations.

In 2016, a new chapter in the statue’s story began when it found a permanent residence at Xtreme Graphix, a graphic design studio owned by an individual with ties to Shirey’s. Here, the statue was meticulously restored to its original red and black color scheme, marking a nostalgic return to its roots.

Today, the Amish Man Statue stands proudly in front of Xtreme Graphix, a tribute to the Amish community near Milford, DE. Despite its tumultuous journey, this iconic figure symbolizes resilience, embodying the steadfast spirit of a culture amidst change.

Visitors and locals alike are invited to witness this magnificent sight, capturing a piece of history and celebrating the enduring legacy of the Amish community. Beyond being a roadside attraction, it serves as a reminder of tradition and a testament to the unique charm of Delaware’s landscape.

Whether you’re a traveler passing through or a curious local, a visit to Xtreme Graphix offers an opportunity to capture a snapshot with the World’s Largest Amish Man Statue, an emblem of heritage and perseverance amidst the ever-evolving world around us.

World’s Largest Amish Horse and Buggy Monument: world record in Mesopotamia, Ohio

Amish Sugar Cookies: A Timeless Gift for the Festive Season

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

As the snow blankets the countryside and the scent of cinnamon and warmth fills the air, the Amish communities gracefully usher in the holiday season with a cherished tradition—the art of baking Amish Sugar Cookies. These delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats aren’t just cookies; they’re a reflection of tradition, a symbol of heartfelt joy, and a gesture of love during Christmas.

In the heart of Amish kitchens, generations have gathered to create these simple yet delightful cookies. Passed down from grandmother to mother to daughter, the recipe for Amish Sugar Cookies embodies the essence of sharing, love, and the spirit of the season.

The Recipe: Amish Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For Decoration:

  • Colored sugar or sprinkles (optional)
sweet cookies christmas baking
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Dough

  1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.
  3. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets.
  4. If desired, sprinkle colored sugar or festive sprinkles onto the cookies for decoration.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
  6. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Share the Joy

Once cooled, these Amish Sugar Cookies are ready to be shared. Package them in decorative tins or gift bags, tie them with ribbons, and spread the warmth and joy of the holiday season with your loved ones.

A Symbol of Tradition and Togetherness

Amish Sugar Cookies aren’t just delicious treats; they embody the spirit of Christmas—a time for togetherness, love, and sharing heartfelt moments. These cookies carry the essence of tradition and the joy of baking, making them the perfect addition to your holiday festivities.

So, this holiday season, embrace the timeless tradition of baking Amish Sugar Cookies. Allow their simple, yet heartwarming taste to become a cherished part of your festive celebrations. After all, in every bite lies a story—a story of tradition, love, and the magic of Christmas.

Walnut Horn Cookies: A Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas Tradition

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

Pennsylvania Dutch Walnut Horn Cookies

Walnut Horn Cookies: A Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas Tradition

In the enchanting world of holiday baking, certain recipes weave magic into the season’s festivities, and for many, the Walnut Horn Cookies, affectionately called “kiffels” in Pennsylvania Dutch tradition, hold the key to a truly joyous Christmas.

A Treasured Tradition

In homes across Pennsylvania Dutch country, the aroma of freshly baked Walnut Horn Cookies permeates the air, signaling the arrival of the festive season. These delicate crescent-shaped delights aren’t just cookies; they’re a legacy—a cherished tradition passed down through generations, embodying the spirit of Christmas.

The Recipe: Walnut Horn Cookies (Kiffels)

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

  • 1 ½ cups walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  3. Divide the dough into four portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In another bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Take one portion of the chilled dough at a time. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin circle (about 8 inches in diameter).
  3. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the circle into 8 equal wedges.
  4. Place a small spoonful of the walnut filling at the widest end of each wedge. Roll the dough, starting from the wide end, to form crescent shapes.
  5. Place the walnut horns on the prepared baking sheets, seam side down, and gently curve them into a crescent shape.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Dust and Delight

Once cooled, dust the Walnut Horn Cookies generously with confectioners’ sugar, creating a snowfall-like effect that adds to their festive charm.

A Taste of Tradition

The Walnut Horn Cookies, or kiffels, embody the essence of Christmas in Pennsylvania Dutch households. Their delicate, flaky crust envelopes a sweet and nutty filling, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on the taste buds—a tantalizing treat that captures the heart of the holiday season.

So, as you embark on your holiday baking adventures, consider adding these Walnut Horn Cookies to your repertoire. Let them weave their magic, bringing the spirit of Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas traditions into your home. After all, ’tis the season for sweetness, joy, and delightful kiffels!

Amish Apple Slab Pie: A Slab-tastically Delicious Tale

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

The Apple of Amish Pie:

Ah, the Amish Apple Slab Pie—a culinary delight that’s as comforting as a warm hug and as charming as a quilt on a chilly evening. Picture this: a sprawling slab of pie filled with the essence of apples, nestled in a buttery crust that’s like a soft whisper of home. This isn’t just any pie—it’s a slab-tastic journey into the heart of Amish baking.

The Legend of the Slab

In the idyllic Amish kitchens where tradition reigns supreme, the Apple Slab Pie holds court as a reigning monarch of desserts. It’s the pie that never says no to another slice, beckoning you with its aroma of cinnamon-kissed apples and promising a sweet escape from the mundane.

Recipe: Amish Apple Slab Pie

Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

  • 6-8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of water)
  • Granulated sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Crust

  1. Mix flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
  3. Divide the dough into two portions (one slightly larger than the other) and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prep the Apples

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Toss apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, cornstarch, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Assemble the Slab

  1. Roll out the larger portion of dough on a floured surface into a rectangle to fit a baking sheet.
  2. Place the rolled-out dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Pile the apple filling onto the dough, leaving a border.
  4. Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the apples. Seal the edges and crimp to create a rustic charm.
  5. Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar.

Step 4: Bake to Bliss

Bake the slab pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let it cool slightly before slicing into generous squares.

Slab-tastic Revelry

The Amish Apple Slab Pie isn’t just dessert—it’s an invitation to indulge in a slice of happiness. It’s the pie that makes you forget your worries, and the laughter that echoes around the table as you savor each mouthful.

So, dive into this slab-tacular adventure and relish the flavors that capture the essence of Amish charm. It’s not just a pie; it’s a slice of pure, unadulterated joy—Amish style.

Delicious Tradition: Amish Pork & Apple Pie

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

In the quaint kitchens of the Amish, culinary treasures often embody a unique fusion of flavors, telling stories of heritage and time-honored traditions. Among these treasures stands the remarkable Amish Pork & Apple Pie—a delightful symphony of savory pork, sweet apples, and fragrant spices, bound together in a flaky pastry crust.

The Tale Behind the Recipe

Rooted in the heart of Amish culture, this recipe weaves together simple yet exquisite ingredients: succulent pork, tart apples, onions, and a medley of aromatic spices. It’s a dish that invites families and communities to gather around the table, evoking memories of shared meals and the warmth of home.

The Recipe: Amish Pork & Apple Pie

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Ingredients

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
  2. Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in the diced apples, ground sage, ground cinnamon, salt, pepper, brown sugar, and flour. Cook for a few minutes until the apples soften slightly and the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Assemble the Pie

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a pie dish with the pastry crust.
  3. Pour the pork and apple mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
  4. Cover the filling with another layer of pie crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust for venting.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked to a beautiful golden hue, remove the Amish Pork & Apple Pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and savor the harmonious blend of savory pork and sweet apples, enveloped in a tender, flaky crust.

In Conclusion

The Amish Pork & Apple Pie is a testament to the artistry of Amish cuisine—a delightful marriage of flavors that transcends culinary boundaries. It invites you to embrace the tradition, warmth, and irresistible flavors that define the heart of Amish cooking. So, gather your loved ones and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the charm and richness of tradition through this delectable pie.