10 Tasty Amish Baked Goods You Can Make with Pantry Staples

There’s nothing quite like the smell of baking – cookies, breads, pies – wafting through a cozy Amish kitchen. The Amish are experts at whipping up comforting treats using simple, common ingredients.

Amish mothers are helped by their daughters (and sometimes sons) to bake a steady supply of treats for their families – as well as for church gatherings and other community events, like school picnics or work “frolics”.

Enjoy this list of 10 sweet (and a couple savory) baked delights – based on everyday ingredients you might just already have in your cupboards or pantry. ~Erik

If you’re in the mood to whip up some comforting treats without a heavy grocery list, this collection of Amish-inspired baked goods is perfect for you.

These delightful recipes rely on common pantry staples, making it easy to create mouthwatering snacks and desserts that bring a little taste of Amish kitchens right to your home.

1. Dutch Apple Cake

Dutch Apple Cake captures the essence of fall with its warm, spiced flavors and tender apple bites. This cake is not just tasty; it’s simple to make, needing only a handful of pantry staples.

With a soft, buttery texture and a generous layer of sliced apples on top, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a quick treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee.

The combination of fresh apples and a sweet cake base creates a satisfying dessert that’s sure to please everyone. It’s moist, flavorful, and has just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up any apples you have on hand!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3-4 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with cinnamon and lemon juice.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and arrange the apple slices on top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

2. Amish Sugar Cookies

Amish sugar cookies bring a touch of sweetness to any occasion. These cookies are soft, buttery, and have a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

The subtle sweetness is complemented by a dusting of powdered sugar, giving them a classic look and taste. They’re great for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

3. Shoofly Pie

Shoofly pie is a delightful dessert, common especially in Lancaster County, PA, that hails from broader Pennsylvania Dutch culture. Its rich, sweet, and molasses-flavored filling is complemented by a crumbly topping, creating a comforting treat that can be enjoyed any time of year.

This pie is simple to make, using pantry staples like flour, sugar, and molasses, making it an accessible recipe for everyone. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy afternoon at home. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup molasses
• 1 cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in 1/4 cup butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of a pie dish to form the crust.
2. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine the molasses, hot water, baking soda, and remaining brown sugar. Stir until well mixed. Then, add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
3. Combine and Bake: Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Make the Topping: While the pie bakes, mix the remaining flour and butter with the leftover crumb mixture to create a crumb topping. After 30 minutes, remove the pie from the oven and sprinkle the topping over it. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

4. Oatmeal Pie

Oatmeal pie combines the warm, comforting flavors of oats with a sweet and creamy filling. This pie is both simple to make and satisfying, making it a perfect addition to any dessert table. With its slightly chewy texture and rich taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Using pantry staples, you can whip up this delicious pie without too much fuss. It’s a great way to use ingredients you already have on hand. Like other Amish pies, it pairs nicely with a scoop of ice cream or a dab of whipped cream.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked pie crust
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in the rolled oats, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool before slicing. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

5. Amish Cornbread

Amish cornbread captures the essence of comfort food. Its slightly sweet flavor and tender crumb make it a perfect side dish for hearty meals – or a warm snack on its own. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this cornbread in no time, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma.

This recipe is not only easy but also versatile. You can enjoy it plain, slathered with butter, or even topped with honey for a sweet twist. Whether you’re serving it alongside chili, soup, or a classic roast, Amish-style cornbread is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter until well blended.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving warm.

6. Amish Molasses Cookies

Amish molasses cookies blend the rich flavors of molasses and warm spices. These cookies are soft, chewy, and have a hint of sweetness that makes them perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also simple to make using ingredients that you likely already have in your cupboards.

The combination of brown sugar and molasses gives these cookies a deep, caramel-like flavor, while spices like ginger and cinnamon add warmth. They’re ideal for cozy afternoons or as a sweet snack for family gatherings. You’ll find that baking these cookies fills your home with an inviting aroma that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look soft. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Buttermilk Biscuits

Buttermilk biscuits are a classic comfort food that brings warmth to any meal. Light and flaky, these biscuits have a subtle tanginess from the buttermilk, making them perfect for breakfast or as a side with dinner. They’re simple to whip up, requiring just a handful of pantry staples, and are sure to please family and friends.

These biscuits can be enjoyed on their own, slathered with butter, or topped with jam. Whether you’re serving them with gravy or enjoying them with a drizzle of honey, every bite is delightful. Get ready to make a batch that just might become a household favorite!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the chilled butter and cut it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly about 5-6 times. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
5. Cut out biscuits with a round cutter and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with honey or a pat of butter.

8. Amish Doughnuts

Amish doughnuts, with their soft, pillowy texture and a hint of sweetness, are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Making these doughnuts at home is quite straightforward, requiring just a few pantry staples, making them ideal for whenever a craving strikes.

These doughnuts are lightly dusted with powdered sugar for a simple yet satisfying intro. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can easily store them for later.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out shapes, placing them on a floured baking sheet.
3. Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the doughnuts in batches, frying until golden brown on each side, about 1-2 minutes per side.
4. Drain and Dust: Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.
5. Serve: Enjoy the doughnuts fresh or store in an airtight container for later. They are best eaten the same day.

9. Honey Whole Wheat Bread

Honey Whole Wheat Bread is a wholesome choice for anyone looking to bake a simple yet satisfying bread. The natural sweetness of honey combined with the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour makes each slice both tasty and nutritious.

This recipe is perfect for beginners, as it requires basic pantry staples and doesn’t involve complicated techniques. With a crispy crust and a soft, tender inside, this bread is great for sandwiches – or simply enjoyed with butter and jam. Plus, making it at home fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread.

Ingredients

• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom of the loaf; if it sounds hollow, it’s done!
6. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

10. Peanut Butter Crumb Pie

Peanut Butter Crumb Pie combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with a crumbly, sweet filling. The taste is a perfect balance of nutty flavors and sweetness, making it a hit for peanut butter lovers. Plus, it’s simple to make, using basic pantry staples.

This pie is not just easy on the taste buds but also on the eyes, with its golden crust and crumb topping. You can whip it up for a family gathering or a cozy night in!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped cream or cool whip
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pre-made pie crust in a pie pan and bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow it to cool.
2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, whipped cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Fill the Pie: Spoon the peanut butter mixture into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top for added crunch and flavor.
5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to set. Slice and enjoy.