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Is This the Best Donut in NJ? Exploring Butler’s Hidden Amish Gem

Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

A Slice of Lancaster in North Jersey: Exploring the New Valley View Amish Market

By Elizabeth Montgomery, Food Editor

For most travelers, the stretch of Route 23 through Morris County is a blur of commuters and retail chains. But lately, a new silhouette has appeared against the backdrop of the Ramapo Mountains—one made of rough-hewn timber and the promise of a slower pace. The Valley View Amish Market has officially opened its doors in Butler, and it is quickly becoming the ultimate Saturday morning pilgrimage for North Jersey foodies and furniture seekers alike.

Located at 1512 Route 23, Butler, NJ 07405, this sprawling indoor market feels less like a shopping trip and more like a brief vacation to the Pennsylvania countryside. From the moment you step through the heavy wooden doors, the hum of modern life is replaced by the rhythmic thumping of dough on flour-dusted counters and the intoxicating scent of hickory-smoked bacon.

The Tourist “Must-Try” List

If you’re visiting for the first time, your biggest challenge won’t be finding something you like—it will be fitting everything into your trunk. The market is divided into distinct “shops,” each run by families who bring generations of expertise to their craft.

  • The Glazed & Confused Donut Stand: Don’t let the name fool you; the tradition here is serious. Their Maple-Bacon Long Johns are legendary, featuring a yeast-risen base so light it almost defies gravity.
  • The “Big Valley” Pretzel Log: These aren’t your average mall pretzels. Imagine a hand-rolled, buttery soft pretzel stuffed with savory fillings like Buffalo Chicken or Ham and Swiss. It’s a handheld meal that ruins all other snacks for you.
  • Smoked Lebanon Bologna: At the deli counter, ask for the “Sweet Smoke” variety. It’s a deep, mahogany-colored beef bologna that perfectly captures the tangy, smoky profile of authentic Dutch curing.
  • Hand-Churned Garlic Butter: Found in the dairy aisle, this butter is so rich it’s almost yellow-orange, packed with fresh herbs that make a simple piece of toast feel like a five-star meal.
donuts

What the Locals & Travelers are Saying

The buzz around Butler is palpable, and the reviews from early visitors suggest that Valley View is filling a void that North Jersey didn’t know it had.

“I used to drive two and a half hours to Lancaster just for the pickles and the atmosphere. Now, I can get that same feeling—and arguably better donuts—right here in Butler. It’s the best thing to happen to Route 23 in a decade.”

— Mark T., Wayne, NJ

“The craftsmanship in the furniture wing is breathtaking. We bought a cherry wood dining table that I’m certain our grandkids will be using one day. You can actually talk to the people who helped build it. That’s rare these days.”

— Elena R., NYC Tourist

📢 Grand Opening Alert: North Jersey, Your Market Has Arrived! 📢

The wait is over! Join us this weekend as the heavy white oak doors of the Valley View Amish Market swing open for the first time. Experience a rare 20-minute vacation to the Pennsylvania countryside, right here in Butler.

When: This Saturday & Sunday (Starting at 9 AM!) Where: 1512 Route 23, Butler, NJ 07405 Who: A new collaborative of over a dozen multi-generational family vendors.

What to Expect:

  • The “Big Valley” Pretzel Log—hand-rolled and stuffed with savory fillings like Buffalo Chicken or Ham & Swiss.
  • Maple-Bacon Long Johns from Glazed & Confused (So light, they almost defy gravity).
  • Acoustic Appalachian music in the furniture courtyard on Saturday afternoon.
  • The legendary Sweet Smoke Lebanon Bologna (Get the end cut!).

Grand Opening Special: The first 50 visitors on Saturday will receive a complimentary, hand-churned Garlic Herb Butter from our dairy stall.

📝 The Valley View First-Timer’s Checklist

Make sure you get the full experience (and fill your trunk!) with this essential vendor checklist.

1. The Big Valley Pretzels: Hand-Rolled Pretzels

  • The Signature Order: A “Pretzel Log” (Stuffed Pretzel)
  • Must-Try Fillings: Pepperoni and Provolone (Savory) or Sweet Cream Cheese (Dessert). They are substantial enough for a handheld lunch.

2. Glazed & Confused Donuts: Authentic Bakery

  • The Signature Order: A Maple-Bacon Long John (The legend is true!).
  • Also Try: The Apple Cider Donuts (Made on an open conveyor, right before your eyes). Ask for them still warm.

3. Heritage Meats & Poultry: The Deli & Smokehouse

  • The Signature Order: Sweet Smoke Lebanon Bologna (A deep, mahogany beef bologna).
  • Don’t Miss: The Open-Pit Rotisserie Chicken. It’s dry-rubbed and smoked over real hickory. Perfect for a quick dinner.

4. Miller’s Dairy Stall: Hand-Churned Dairy

  • The Signature Order: A roll of Garlic Herb Butter. (It is an unexpected star and elevates everything).
  • Also Try: Raw Milk Cheddar (A 3-year aged variety that has a wonderful, sharp crystals).

5. The Quilt & Furniture Courtyard: Master Craftsmanship

  • The Signature Order: This is for browsing! A white oak dining table (Customizable and built for generations).
  • Don’t Miss: The Hand-Stitched Heirloom Quilts. (Look for traditional patterns like the “Logan Star”). They are true works of art.

The Best Road Trip Stop in NJ? Exploring the Mullica Hill Amish Market

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Market,Other States

A South Jersey Secret: Why Mullica Hill’s Amish Market is a Must-Visit for Travelers

When most tourists think of New Jersey, they picture the glitter of Atlantic City or the iconic boardwalks of the Shore. But for those in the know, some of the most authentic flavors in the Garden State are found in a timber-framed sanctuary nestled in the heart of Gloucester County. The Mullica Hill Amish Market isn’t just a place to shop; it’s a sensory expedition that brings the soul of Lancaster County right to South Jersey.

Located at 108 Swedesboro Road, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062, this market is a bustling hub of tradition that operates on a rhythmic Thursday-through-Saturday schedule. For a traveler, it offers a rare glimpse into a slower pace of life, where the food is prepared with patience and the hospitality is as warm as the glazed donuts coming off the line.

The “Must-Eat” Bucket List

While the market houses over a dozen different vendors, a few legendary items have earned a permanent spot on every visitor’s checklist.

  • The Beiler’s Donut Crawl: You haven’t truly experienced the market until you’ve stood in the (worthwhile) line for a Beiler’s donut. With over 40 flavors—ranging from classic glazed to the decadent “Elvis Delite”—watching them hand-fill these pastries is half the fun.
  • Hand-Rolled Pretzel Logs: Forget everything you know about soft pretzels. Here, they are stuffed with savory fillings like bacon, egg, and cheese or pepperoni and melted mozzarella.
  • The “Chicken Shack” Specialties: For a hearty lunch, the rotisserie chicken and smoked ribs are non-negotiable. The skin is perfectly seasoned and crisp, a testament to the open-pit roasting style.
  • Hand-Stretched Açaí Bowls: A modern twist that has become a local favorite, these are crafted at the Immer Frish stand using fresh-picked berries and local honey.
donuts

What the Travelers are Saying

The loyalty of the market’s patrons is a testament to its quality. One regular visitor, Brian G., recently noted, “I have had awesome service at every vendor. I especially love the little restaurant inside—it’s the perfect place to sit down and actually taste the tradition.”

Another local traveler, Sarah K., highlighted the unique atmosphere: “It’s the kind of place where you come for the bread but leave with a trunk full of handmade soaps, local wine, and a pie that’s still warm. You can taste the difference in the meat and dairy; it’s like stepping back into a simpler time.”

One verified reviewer, Gilbert S., summed up the experience perfectly: “Pretzels are delicious, meats are fresh, and the donuts are the most addictive anywhere. It’s an absolute highlight of my weekly travels.”

Pretzels are delicious

The Ultimate Guide to an Authentic Ohio Amish Country Day Trip with Kids

Written by Dennis Regling in Ohio

Stepping into Ohio’s Amish Country, a sprawling region encompassing Holmes, Wayne, and Tuscarawas counties, is like stepping off a bullet train and onto a gentle buggy track. As the largest settlement of its kind in the world, this is a destination that demands a slower pace. It’s not just a geographic change; it’s a sensory shift, where the aroma of cinnamon rolls and hickory smoke replaces car exhaust, and the dominant sound is the rhythmic clatter of hooves on asphalt.

A day trip here isn’t just a scenic drive; it’s an educational and exceptionally tasty journey through a living tradition. If you’re planning the perfect family day, one that captures the essence of this unique culture while keeping the kids utterly enchanted, this is how you do it.

Your Perfect Day Itinerary

9:30 AM: Kickstart with Authenticity in Berlin

Your journey begins in Berlin, the energetic, traditional hub of Amish Country. Start at Hershberger’s Truck Patch, which is so much more than a produce stand. It’s a bustling farmers market, a bakery, and most importantly, a petting zoo. For a minimal fee, you and the kids can wander among goats (many perched on their signature wooden bridges), ponies, and even exotic farm animals. The “Goat Coaster” (a multi-level ramp where goats eagerly traverse for feed) is an immediate hit.

“My kids usually hate markets, but they lovedHershberger’s,” shared Sarah L. on TripAdvisor. “The petting zoo is fantastic, and the baked goods are insane. We bought two dozen cinnamon rolls and they didn’t even make it home!”

Favorite Items: Before you leave, you must visit the bakery counter. The undisputed favorite is their signature Cinnamon Rolls. They are the size of a dinner plate, impossibly soft, and swirled with a generous amount of spice. Ask for one “warmed up.” Trust me. Also, look for their fresh Apple Butter, which is made over an open kettle.

11:00 AM: A Lesson in Slow Living

From Hershberger’s, it’s a quick 10-minute drive to Amish Country Viewing. While you can see buggies and farms everywhere, for a structured experience, visit Schrock’s Heritage Village. Here, you can take a guided buggy ride, tour an authentic Amish home, and learn about the faith and daily life from knowledgeable guides. It’s a gentle, respectful look at the culture that defines this region.

1:00 PM: The Main Event – Lunch

Drive into the historic heart of Walnut Creek for lunch. There are many options, but the Der Dutchman Restaurant and Bakery is a classic. It’s a massive, efficient establishment that manages to maintain a home-cooked feel. They specialize in “Amish-style” comfort food.

Favorite Items: The most popular items are the Chicken and Noodles over Mashed Potatoes, which is exactly as hearty as it sounds. The absolute must-try item, however, is their Pie. They offer a staggering array of options, from traditional Shoofly Pie (a rich molasses and crumb dessert) to deep-dish apple and seasonal favorites.

“You have to try the pie,” says Yelp reviewer Mike S. “I’m not a big molasses fan, but the Shoofly pie at Der Dutchman is in a different league. It’s dark, rich, and somehow not overly sweet. A piece with coffee is the perfect afternoon treat.”

2:30 PM: Markets and a Sweet Stop

Your day trip cannot conclude without exploring the markets. Just outside of Walnut Creek is Heini’s Cheese Chalet. This isn’t just a shop; it’s an interactive cheese museum and tasting experience. The entire perimeter is lined with sampling stations featuring over 100 varieties of cheese made on-site. The “Lacy Baby Swiss” and “Ghost Pepper Cheese” (if you dare) are favorites.

Favorite Items: The samples are the favorite, but be sure to look for their Chocolate Cheese Fudge in the back. It’s a creamy, rich dessert made with cheese that defies expectation.

Finish your food tour by heading back through Berlin to Coblentz Chocolate Company. This is a higher-end artisanal chocolate shop that is a beautiful visual experience itself. Watching the “chocolate waterfall” in the viewing window is a peaceful way to unwind.

Favorite Items: The top choice is their Buckeyes. They elevate the Ohio staple with dark chocolate shells and a creamy, peanut butter center that is perfected through traditional techniques.

5:00 PM: Scenic Drive and Homeward Bound

As the sun dips low, take a final, leisurely drive. Take Route 62 from Berlin towards Millersburg. This stretch of road, winding through the rolling, patchworked fields, is arguably the most beautiful in the county, often featured in calendars and films. Take your time, pull over for photos, and savor the quiet grace of a truly unique place before heading home.

    Farm Fun and Animal Encounters

    Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery

    Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery

    • Features a sprawling petting zoo with friendly farm animals and a unique “Goat Coaster.”
    • Known for massive, oven-warm cinnamon rolls and homemade apple butter.

    Cultural Exploration

    Schrock’s Heritage Village

    Schrock’s Heritage Village

    • Offers guided buggy rides that provide a classic Amish Country experience.
    • Includes a tour of an authentic Amish home to learn about local history and customs.

    Hearty Amish Dining

    Der Dutchman

    Specializes in traditional “Amish-style” meals like chicken and noodles served over real mashed potatoes.

    • Boasts an incredible bakery with a massive selection of pies, including the famous Shoofly pie.

    Savory and Sweet Markets

    Heini’s Cheese Chalet

    • Provides samples of over 100 varieties of locally made cheese, including their popular Lacy Baby Swiss.
    • Features unique items like chocolate cheese fudge.

    • Features a viewing window where kids can watch the “chocolate waterfall” and the candy-making process.
    • Renowned for their Buckeyes, a classic Ohio treat made with rich peanu

    Vermont’s Best New Comfort Food? Inside Bennington’s Amish Kitchen

    Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

    A Vermont Twist on Tradition: Green Mountain Amish Kitchen Opens in Bennington

    The rugged beauty of the Green Mountains has always attracted those who value hard work, land stewardship, and a simpler way of life. This week, that spirit finds a delicious new expression with the opening of Green Mountain Amish Kitchen, a family-run restaurant that brings the comfort of the “plain” table to Southern Vermont.

    Located at 210 Northside Drive, Bennington, VT 05201, the kitchen is housed in a warm, timber-framed building that feels more like a neighbor’s dining room than a commercial eatery. While the Amish community in Vermont is small and centered further north in the Northeast Kingdom, this new Bennington outpost serves as a bridge, featuring recipes and goods from the Brownington settlement combined with Southern Vermont’s legendary local produce.

    Comfort Food, Vermont Style

    The menu at Green Mountain Amish Kitchen is a curated collection of “slow food” staples, where the focus is on depth of flavor and quality ingredients rather than rapid service. The kitchen uses local Vermont maple syrup, Grafton cheeses, and heritage-breed meats, all prepared with the precise, traditional techniques of the Pennsylvania Dutch.

    Early menu highlights include:

    • Maple-Glazed Ham Balls: A classic PA Dutch dish reimagined with a thick, dark Vermont Grade A maple glaze. These savory-sweet morsels are served alongside hand-mashed potatoes.
    • The “Green Mountain Haystack”: A hearty layered bowl featuring crushed crackers, seasoned beef, and fresh garden vegetables, all smothered in a creamy white cheddar sauce made with local sharp Vermont cheese.
    • Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding: Made from the bakery’s famous oversized cinnamon rolls, this dense, custard-rich pudding is served warm with a drizzle of maple cream.
    beef and noodles
    beef and noodles

    Community Voices: “A Much-Needed Addition”

    The grand opening saw a mix of local residents and hungry travelers coming off Route 7. Local teacher Clara Higgins was among the first to try the “Haystack.” “I’ve lived in Bennington for twenty years, and we’ve never had anything like this,” she shared. “It’s not just the food—which is incredible—it’s the atmosphere. You walk in and immediately feel like you need to put your phone away and just enjoy the company.”

    Another diner, Robert Miller, raved about the craftsmanship of the baked goods. “I bought a loaf of their salt-rising bread to take home, and it didn’t even make it through the car ride. The crust is perfect, and you can tell it wasn’t rushed. It’s exactly the kind of quality you expect when you see that signature Amish style.”

    Title Suggestions

    Lewistown’s Best Kept Secret: Inside the New Meadow View Amish Market

    Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

    A Taste of Tradition: Inside Lewistown’s Newest Hidden Gem, the Meadow View Amish Market

    The scenic Juniata Valley has a new destination for those seeking a slower pace, unparalleled craftsmanship, and the authentic flavors of the “plain” community. Nestled just outside the heart of Lewistown, PA, the newly opened Meadow View Amish Market has quickly become the worst-kept secret in Mifflin County, drawing locals and travelers alike to its doors.

    Located at 4130 US Highway 522 S, Lewistown, PA 17044, the market is a collaborative effort involving several local Amish families who have created a space that celebrates a farm-to-counter ethos that predates any modern trend.

    What Everyone is Talking About

    The Meadow View Market isn’t just a grocery stop; it’s a full sensory experience. While you can find everything from organic produce to bulk spices, early patrons are already crowning the “Dutch Kitchen” section as the heart of the establishment. The bakery has seen lines forming as early as 7:00 AM, driven by the aroma of yeast, cinnamon, and sugar.

    Here are the early fan favorites that are already cementing the market’s reputation:

    Sandwich
    sandwich
    • The “Farmer’s Bounty” Breakfast Sandwich: This is not your typical convenience store offering. Built on a fresh, hand-rolled sourdough roll, it features thick-cut, maple-smoked bacon, organic eggs from a neighboring farm, and a signature horseradish-mustard sauce that offers a delightful “Amish time” kick.
    • “Meadow Melts” Hand-Stretched Doughnuts: Rolled, fried, and glazed right before your eyes, these doughnuts are light-as-air with a complex, deep flavor that mass-market alternatives simply cannot match. They come in four daily flavors, but the Maple-Bacon glaze is already a local obsession.
    • Lancaster County (Lebanon) Bologna: A sweet and smoky beef-based meat that is a staple of Pennsylvania Dutch culture. Meadow View offers both the sweet and “super sweet” varieties, often served with their homemade “Dutch Honey” mustard.

    What the Community is Saying

    Local resident, David Stinner, was spotted leaving with a warm loaf of bread and three different jars of apple butter. “I’ve lived in this valley my whole life, and I’ve never tasted a sourdough roll like this,” he said, holding up his fresh purchase. “You can tell the recipe is old and has been passed down for generations. The quality is just impeccable.”

    Another early review shared on a local food forum praised the atmosphere as much as the food. “In a world of fast-food and self-checkouts, walking into Meadow View is a gift. There’s no rush, everyone is smiling, and they take their time with you. And the chicken corn soup? I thought my grandmother’s was good, but this might be better. You just feel better after eating it.”

    If You Go

    Meadow View Amish Market

    4130 US Highway 522 S

    Lewistown, PA 17044

    Amish Bakery–Style Huge Molasses Cookie Formula

    Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

    Amish bakery molasses cookies are famous for being huge, soft, and almost cake-like, often 4–5 inches across and very thick. The difference isn’t just the recipe—it’s a few specific bakery techniques that many home bakers don’t use.

    Here are the three classic Amish bakery tricks that make molasses cookies huge and fluffy instead of thin and flat.

    1. Use a Combination of Baking Soda and Baking Powder

    Most molasses cookie recipes only use baking soda. Amish bakeries often add a little baking powder as well, which gives the cookies extra lift.

    Why it works

    Molasses is acidic. Baking soda reacts with it and spreads the cookie.
    Baking powder adds vertical rise, making the cookies thicker and softer.

    Typical Amish bakery ratio

    • 2 tsp baking soda
    • 1 tsp baking powder

    This helps create a puffy center instead of a flat cookie.

    2. Roll the Dough Into Very Large Balls

    Instead of tablespoon-sized cookies, Amish bakeries use very large dough balls.

    Typical bakery size:

    • ¼ cup dough per cookie

    That produces cookies about:

    • 4–5 inches wide
    • ¾–1 inch thick

    Because the dough ball is so large, the center stays soft and fluffy.

    molasses cookies

    3. Bake at a Slightly Higher Temperature

    Many bakery versions bake at 375°F instead of 350°F.

    This does two things:

    • Sets the outside quickly
    • Prevents the cookie from spreading too much

    The result is:

    ✔ crackled top
    ✔ thick edges
    ✔ soft cake-like middle

    4. Chill the Dough First (Big Bakery Secret)

    Many Amish bakeries chill molasses dough for 1–2 hours.

    Cold dough:

    • spreads slower
    • holds its shape
    • bakes taller

    This is one of the biggest differences between bakery cookies and homemade ones.

    5. Slightly Underbake Them

    Amish bakers remove the cookies when:

    • the tops are cracked
    • the edges are set
    • the centers still look slightly soft

    They finish setting while cooling, which keeps them pillowy soft.

    Typical baking time for large cookies:

    10–11 minutes

    Amish Bakery–Style Huge Molasses Cookie Formula

    If you want the real farm-market style, use:

    • ¾ cup shortening
    • ¼ cup oil
    • 1 cup brown sugar
    • ¼ cup white sugar
    • ⅓ cup molasses
    • 1 egg
    • 2½ cups flour
    • 2 tsp baking soda
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1½ tsp cinnamon
    • 1 tsp ginger
    • ½ tsp cloves
    • ½ tsp salt

    Roll into ¼-cup balls, coat in sugar, and bake at 375°F for 10–11 minutes.

    What the Finished Cookies Should Look Like

    Authentic Amish bakery molasses cookies will be:

    • Very large (4–5 inches)
    • Crackled sugar crust
    • Soft, fluffy center
    • Thick edges
    • Deep brown color

    They almost resemble a molasses muffin top more than a normal cookie.