Amish Pies

Book Review: Amish Pies: Traditional Fruit, Nut, Cream, Chocolate, and Custard Pies

Rating: 3 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing “Amish Pies by” Laura Anne Lapp, with gorgeous photography by Bonnie Matthews, and I have to say, it was quite the delightful experience. Spoiler alert: I'm giving it a solid three stars! Let me share why.

This charming cookbook is packed with 60 recipes for both sweet and savory pies, reflecting the rich baking traditions of the Amish community. Laura Lapp, who grew up in the Lancaster area, shares a treasure trove of recipes that have been passed down through generations. The book is filled with heartwarming stories from real Amish grandmothers and insights into their tight-knit way of life. It really does feel like you're getting a peek into a world where simplicity and tradition reign supreme.

As I dove into the pages, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of pies available—everything from the classic Shoofly Pie and Apple Pie to unique offerings like Oatmeal Pie and Chicken Pot Pie. The recipes embrace seasonal ingredients, which made me excited to try out different flavors throughout the year. What I particularly loved is that these recipes are designed for everyone; whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, you'll find the instructions clear and approachable. There's no need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients here.

One thing that really stood out to me was how the authors infused the book with warmth and nostalgia. Each recipe feels like a lovingly shared family secret, which makes it all the more special when you attempt to recreate them in your own kitchen. Plus, the beautiful photographs by Bonnie Matthews make everything look so tempting; they add that extra flair that makes you want to whip up a pie right away!

However, I did find myself wishing for a bit more depth in some of the stories accompanying the recipes. While they were nice and added a personal touch, there were moments when I wanted to hear more about the traditions behind each pie or the specific memories tied to them.

Overall, Amish Pies is a lovely collection of recipes that truly celebrates the art of pie-making in Amish culture. It's definitely worth checking out if you're looking to expand your baking repertoire with some comforting classics. Just be prepared to take your time savoring both the stories and the delicious results that come from your kitchen! Happy baking!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️