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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

Amish Apple Slab Pie

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

Amish Pork & Apple Pie

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.

Amish Hearty Maple Beans: A Rustic Culinary Gem Waiting to be Discovered

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish cooking

Amish Hearty Maple Beans

I am delighted to introduce you to an exceptional culinary creation steeped in tradition and brimming with flavor—the Amish Hearty Maple Beans. This recipe, originating from the heart of Amish kitchens, embodies the essence of wholesome, comforting cuisine that transcends generations.

Picture this: a pot bubbling with tender beans, infused with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, mingling with savory bacon and aromatic spices. This is the allure of the Amish Hearty Maple Beans—a symphony of flavors that evokes nostalgia and warmth, promising a journey through the heart of Amish culinary heritage.

This recipe brings together simple yet indispensable ingredients—navy beans, maple syrup, bacon, onion, mustard, and a dash of spices—to create a tapestry of taste that delights the palate. The beans are soaked, then slowly simmered to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld and develop into a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.

What Sets It Apart

What makes the Amish Hearty Maple Beans truly remarkable is not just its delightful taste but also its versatility. It’s a dish that effortlessly transitions from a comforting weeknight meal to a star attraction at gatherings and potlucks. Its robust flavors and rustic charm captivate the senses and leave an indelible impression on all who savor it.

Embracing Tradition and Nourishing Souls

In a world of fast-paced living, the Amish Hearty Maple Beans offer a glimpse into a slower, more deliberate way of cooking—a celebration of time-honored techniques and the inherent warmth of shared meals. These beans aren’t just a dish; they’re an embodiment of community, tradition, and the timeless joy of gathering around a table filled with hearty, soul-nourishing food.

Why This Recipe Deserves a Place in Your Collection

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about storytelling. It carries within it the legacy of the Amish way of life—simple, intentional, and deeply rooted in the land. Its narrative is one of resilience, resourcefulness, and an unwavering commitment to preserving heritage through the art of cooking.

Amish Maple Syrup

Amish Hearty Maple Beans Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
  • 6 cups water
  • 1/2 pound bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

  1. Rinse and drain the soaked navy beans. Place them in a large pot and add 6 cups of water.
  2. Bring the beans to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans for about 1 to 1.5 hours until they are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
  2. In the same skillet, using the bacon drippings, sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked navy beans, crispy bacon, sautéed onions, maple syrup, molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the beans evenly with the sauce.
  3. Transfer the bean mixture into a baking dish or a Dutch oven.
  4. Cover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the Amish Hearty Maple Beans are cooked to perfection and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving.

These Amish Hearty Maple Beans are a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a standalone delight, these beans promise to bring the heartwarming essence of Amish cuisine to your table.

The Amish Hearty Maple Beans beckon to be shared, celebrated, and embraced. It’s a culinary treasure waiting to grace the pages of your esteemed publication—a recipe that encapsulates the charm, richness, and enduring appeal of Amish cuisine.

Culinary Classic: Mastering the Art of Amish Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie

In the realm of Amish culinary treasures, the Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie stands as a testament to simplicity, tradition, and the artistry of home-baked delights. Originating from the heart of Amish kitchens, this pie exudes a rustic charm that captivates taste buds and evokes a sense of nostalgia.

The foundational elements of the Amish Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie are humble yet essential: oats, brown sugar, eggs, butter, and a hint of spice. These basic pantry staples intertwine to create a symphony of flavors and textures that pay homage to the essence of Amish baking.

Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie

Oatmeal pie is a tasty dessert that captures all the luscious flavor of pecan pie but costs less to make. It’s a perfect treat for those who have nut allergies.

Understanding the Technique

  1. Crust Preparation: Begin with a classic pie crust or a pre-made one. Roll out the dough and place it into a pie dish, crimping the edges for a traditional touch.
  2. Oatmeal Filling: The heart of the pie lies in the filling. Combine rolled oats, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, a dash of vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. The oats absorb the flavors, creating a rich, textured center.
  3. Assembly and Baking: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared pie crust. Ensure an even distribution. Bake in a preheated oven until the filling sets and the crust achieves a golden hue. The aroma will permeate your kitchen, a prelude to the delight awaiting your taste buds.

The key to perfecting the Amish Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie lies in the balance of ingredients and precision in baking. The oats provide a chewy texture, while the brown sugar adds depth and sweetness. The ensemble of eggs and butter lends a creamy richness, elevating the pie to a dessert worthy of celebration.

Amish kitchen scene

Once cooled, slice the pie into wedges and serve. The marriage of flavors—the nuttiness of oats, the caramelized sweetness of brown sugar, and the subtle warmth of cinnamon—creates a symphony on the palate. Pair it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.

The Amish Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie transcends generations, embodying the essence of Amish culinary heritage. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and nostalgic appeal make it a cherished addition to any dessert repertoire. Mastering this recipe is not just about baking a pie; it’s about preserving tradition, savoring simplicity, and creating moments of shared joy around the table.

Amish Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a pie dish, crimping the edges decoratively. Set it aside while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

Step 3: Fill the Pie

Pour the oatmeal filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth out the top for a uniform surface.

Step 4: Bake

Place the pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust turns golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the pie is ready.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps the filling set further.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Slice the pie into wedges and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed. Pair it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful accompaniment.

Note: This Amish Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Pie offers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors—chewy oats with a rich caramelized sweetness—that make it a beloved dessert perfect for any occasion, evoking the cozy charm of Amish heritage baking.

Are The Amish Millionaires?

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Life

Are The Amish Millionaires. 
The Amish community is often associated with a lifestyle characterized by simplicity, modesty, and a deliberate avoidance of ostentatious displays of wealth. However, beneath this perceived simplicity lies a reality that might surprise many—an existence where some Amish individuals have amassed significant wealth, albeit in ways distinct from conventional perceptions of affluence.

Within the Amish society, there exists a subset of individuals who have accumulated substantial wealth, with their riches predominantly manifested in two primary avenues. Firstly, there are Amish individuals who possess vast tracts of land, particularly in regions like Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where soaring land prices have led to multimillion-dollar farms. These lands, often passed down through generations, constitute a considerable portion of their non-liquid assets.

Secondly, business success has emerged as a pathway for financial prosperity among the Amish. Faced with challenges in maintaining farms due to escalating land pressures, many Amish have turned to entrepreneurial endeavors. The Amish have historically engaged in trades and manufacturing-type businesses, such as woodworking, furniture-making, metalwork, construction, and food-related enterprises. This shift toward small-scale businesses has enabled some members of the community to amass substantial wealth over time.

While the Amish generally prioritize a simple and uniform lifestyle, the display of affluence among the wealthy is subtle and understated. They may invest their wealth in various ways, including acquiring more land, purchasing stocks, or aiding their children in procuring farms. Despite their financial success, they adhere to the traditional Amish practices and often direct their resources towards supporting their community. This includes contributing toward communal needs like medical expenses, as the Amish typically rely on internal support systems rather than conventional insurance.

The Amish ethos of humility and community solidarity discourages ostentation and encourages a sense of equality among its members. This is reflected in their collective adherence to plain clothing, similar styles of homes, and a focus on preserving a sense of unity within the community.

The wealthy Amish, while existing within the community, do not conspicuously display their affluence. Their financial success coexists harmoniously with the Amish values of modesty, humility, and communal support, embodying a unique blend of prosperity and adherence to traditional values that define the Amish way of life.
a man using a horse drawn hay baler
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