Amish Baking at Home Cookbook: Recipes and Memories from My Heritage

by Naomi Stutzman Gingerich

There's something magical about Amish and Mennonite baking, which may be why people travel far and wide to savor its authenticity. Now you can capture the same fresh-baked goodness at home and fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of traditional Amish baked goods and desserts with the Amish Baking at Home Cookbook. Taste 176 recipes for homemade Amish cookies, breads, rolls, cinnamon rolls, pies, cobblers, and much more. Inside, Naomi Gingerich—a food writer and natural storyteller—will have you sinking your teeth into the Amish and Mennonite cultures that shaped her culinary upbringing. It's not just a cookbook. It's a grand tour through Amish country, exploring the family-honed traditions that bring each recipe to life. With the Amish Baking at Home Cookbook, everything you make will help you feel a little more connected to the wholesome, natural ingredients that make Amish baking so unforgettable.

 This special edition features a gorgeous fabric-wrapped spine, shimmering gold page edges, and is individually numbered and signedby author Naomi Gingerich on the inside cover, making it a truly beautiful keepsake for any home baker!  

Genres: Cookbooks, Cooking

520 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2025

Reviews

[Sherri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naomi Stutzman Gingerich writes the anecdotal parts with warmth and honesty that you feel like you're having coffee at the kitchen table with plates of treats in front of you.

Wonderful color photos accompany each recipe. Most seem doable and yet some seem work without our modern conveniences when you think most of these recipes were designed for hand tools since they do not use electricity (or much).

The author tends back and forth between terminology of Amish and Mennonite, yet I believe she comes from a Mennonite family and left the church at 23 to start her family.

She now owns a bakery with her daughter.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic cookbook! All of the recipes are simple and easy to follow. The ingredients are easy to find and this is a great cookbook for anyone who wants to start more baking more at home. I loved the stories and facts about the various traditions within the Amish community. A few of the recipes I'm going to try are the Strawberry Pie, Vanilla Crumb Pie, Fresh Strawberry Cake, Banana Cake, Peanut Butter Banana Cake,Pumpkin Roll up,Oreo Ice Cream Pudding,Monster Cookies,Banana Bread and French Toast. I would highly recommend this! Special Thank You to Naomi Stutzman Gingerich, Fox Chapel Publishing and Netgalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Amish Baking at Home Cookbook by Naomi Stutzman Gingerich

Rating: 5 Stars

I’m giving Amish Baking at Home Cookbook by Naomi Stutzman Gingerich five stars without hesitation. From the moment I picked it up I felt like I’d been invited into someone’s warm, sunlit kitchen—one where the oven is always on and the coffee is already poured. Naomi writes like a friendly neighbor, and the recipes read like family heirlooms: straightforward, comforting, and rooted in real life.

The book delivers what it promises: 176 recipes that span cookies, breads, rolls (yes, the cinnamon rolls are divine), pies, cobblers, and more. But it’s more than a collection of instructions. Naomi pairs each dish with personal stories and the cultural context of Amish and Mennonite baking, so you’re not just following steps — you’re experiencing the heritage behind them. There’s an authenticity here that makes you want to slow down, measure with care, and savor the whole process. It’s an inviting tour through Amish country traditions and the sensibilities that shaped them, and it makes the idea of baking from scratch feel both doable and deeply satisfying.

A few things I especially loved: the book looks and feels special (this edition’s fabric-wrapped spine and gold-edged pages are lovely), and Naomi’s signature and the numbered inside cover give it an almost-keepsake quality. The layout is clear and practical — recipes are easy to follow, which is perfect for both beginners and seasoned home bakers. And the photos! There are plenty of mouth watering images of the dishes alongside warm, memoir-style family photos that add to that cozy “sit down for coffee and a slice” vibe. I kept thinking of my grandma while flipping through — she wasn’t Amish, but so many of these recipes felt like the ones she’d make on a Sunday afternoon.

If you’re looking for a cookbook that’s part recipe compendium, part storybook, and all about simple, wholesome baking, this is it. It makes a thoughtful gift for home cooks, new homeowners, or anyone who loves nostalgic, made-from-scratch desserts. I’m already planning what to bake next, and I know this one will have a permanent spot on my shelf. Highly recommended.

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

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Baking at Home is the Amish cookbook you didn’t know you wanted or needed. The author, Naomi, grew up in a Mennonite home and had Amish grandparents. When she left the church as a young woman, she was committed to preserving the value of family and food. Some of the recipes are updated with a modern twist, while others remain true and authentic. I adored all the pictures and for some things, at the start of each chapter (take pie crust for example), she takes you through, step by step to show technique. The first chapter on pies made me want one of everything! The second chapter with cakes has an excellent tutorial on making and icing a cake. Each entry has a colorful picture that creatively captures the recipe being shown. Some of these recipes are ones I remember tasting years ago and would have forgotten all about had they not been called out here. So many good ones I can’t wait to make myself and finally enjoy again. Third chapter gets into desserts and sweets (as if pie and cake have not been enough, there’s even more to come). The fourth chapter covers cookies, brownies, and bars. The following chapter is all things bread. Oh man, was this one divine! So many amazing breads to choose from. And perhaps one of my favorites, an entire chapter dedicated to delectable breakfast options. Wrapping it all up are frosting and compotes, which make a nice finishing touch to so many of these recipes. I can’t think of a single thing that I would have wanted to see included that was left out. A nice touch, sprinkled along the way are pages with information about Amish lifestyle and practices, hospitality and cakes, schooling, their stockings, their coverings, singing, music and art, quilting,
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

THOUGHTS: I live in an area populated by the Amish and Mennonite and many of the recipes in this book are reminiscent of the area. I loved the stories and memoir-like pictures as they bring back memories of stories my father told of growing up on an Amish farm. There are also plenty of color pictures to go with many of the recipes which help. As for the recipes themselves, they are clear, concise, and easy to follow. The author includes such ones like Shoo Fly Pie, Whacky Cake, Tapioca Fluff, Apple Fritters, and Whoopie Pies and so much more. Okay, not all of them are strictly Amish, but they are sooo good. The only slight drawback is that there is no nutritional information, but these are not recipes for the diet conscious. They are full of fat, sugar, and so much deliciousness that you can’t help but enjoy them — on occasion.

Definitely recommended (and on my “must buy the hardcover” list)!

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”. Thanks to Fox Chapel Publishing, Netgalley, and the author for providing this ARC.

[Megan Beech · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t tend to gush over books when I review them but this one has a very special place in my heart.
Amish Baking at Home, for me personally, is a walk down memory lane in the form of my own family recipes and being in my grandma’s kitchen again helping her bake. As a former Mennonite myself, these are recipes I grew up with and as time has gone on, I had lost and missed them so much. Now I can recreate so many holiday desserts and morning breakfast breads again, thanks to Naomi and her family and share these recipes with my daughter and the heritage she inherited through her mama. I’m so thankful that this book exists!

The photographs are beautiful and well taken, the recipes are easy to read and follow along and reading up on my heritage and beliefs and why we as Amish and Mennonites do what we do, dress like we do and adhere to what we do makes me miss the community but since I’ve left, I know it was for the better.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Amish baking and lifestyle, just baking in general and would like an inspirational book to read through. I hope everyone enjoys this book as much as I have and try out the recipes for yourselves. Happy Reading!

#AmishBakingatHomeCookbook #netgalley

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Sally Wilsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Baking at Home Cookbook by Naomi Stutzman Gingerich

Next to reading my second passion is baking, so when I saw this book, I had to read it. I was not disappointed.
The beginning of the book and in between chapters is a little history is a great addition.
I like the way the author has photos of all the things made and a list of basic kitchen needs for the book.
The photos in this book make you want to try each and every recipe.
From the apple, blueberry, shoofly and custard pies to mayonnaise cake, chiffon cake and spice crumb cake you will want to try them all.
Others include desserts like cherry delight, apple dumpling roll ups, and brown sugar pudding. Cookies include rockie road bars, Amish church cookies, and monster cookies. Breads include pluckets, corn pone and crushed wheat bread. Breakfast includes cinnamon rolls, blueberry lemon muffins, and raised donuts. It finishes with frostings and compotes. Personally I am thankful for the pie crust recipe that is step by step.
This book will keep the avid baker or beginning baker occupied for a while and there are lots of things I have not heard of that I will definitely try.
I recommend this book for anyone who would like to bake or does bake.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

"There's something magical about Amish and Mennonite baking..." um, that's an understatement ha. There are a few Amish and Mennonite communities nearby that visit local farmer's markets and I always enjoy seeing the treats they have on offer. The author is from an Amish community, so she shares many family and community recipes in this book as well as anecdotes from growing up in an Amish community.

This cookbook has so many recipes that are exactly what I want to eat at all times. So many pies, cakes, cookies, and other sweets with pictures of everything! There's also breakfast pastries, breads and rolls, jams and compotes... everything you could want!

Absolutely delightful book.

I received a free ebook copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Baking at Home Cookbook is a beautifully illustrated, well put together book filled with tried and true recipes from the author's family. The recipes are clearly written and easy to follow. The book is broken into seven chapters: pies, cakes, desserts, cookies & bars, bread, breakfast and frostings & sauces. Recipes include standbys like apple pie, carrot cake, peach cobbler, chocolate chip cookies, pumpkin bread, cinnamon rolls and fruit compote. While there were a few typos that I hope will be corrected in the final print edition, I would recommend this as a solid book for anyone wanting to start their cookbook library or as a fun addition to any experienced cook's bookshelf.

I received a free advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.

[JudyAnnLovesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMISH BAKING AT HOME COOKBOOK by Naomi Stutzman Gingerich is a true delight. As someone who loves all things Amish, I was completely immersed in the warmth and simplicity of their world. Each page feels like a visit to an Amish kitchen, filled with the comforting aroma of fresh bread, pies, and cookies.

The recipes are easy to follow and full of heart, capturing the wholesome goodness that makes Amish baking so special. I especially enjoyed how Naomi included glimpses into Amish culture life. This book made me both happy and hungry from start to finish. A five-star treasure for anyone who loves baking and the peaceful spirit of Amish life. I’m giving the AMISH BAKING AT HOME COOKBOOK the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

[Teresa Starrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

The nostalgia I felt when reading this book was immense. As I made my way through each of the carefully selected recipes and perused the pictures, I yearned for the simplicity of homemade pie and flavorful cakes. It did not end there, though, as the delicious recipes such as Chocolate Cookie Pudding and Blueberry Delight continued to call to me. If savory is your weakness, the section on bread will have you smelling freshly made loaves aplenty. Each recipe, including hearty breakfast fare, is accompanied by a picture. I am excited to add this book to my permanent cookbook collection. Many thanks to NetGalley and Fox Chapel Publishing for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Baking At Home focuses on Amish baked goods and accompanying stories from many different families. The book is different from many Amish Cookbooks I've encountered as there are photos to help illustrate instructions and show off the finished desserts. Each recipe has a picture, recipe blurb, ingredients, and directions.

The Sections are
Chapter 1: Pies
Chapter 2: Cakes
Chapter 3: Desserts & Sweets
Chapter 4: Cookies, Brownies, & Bars
Chapter 5: Bread
Chapter 6: Breakfast
Chapter 7: Frostings & Compotes

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Tiffany Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fantastic cookbook! Amish baking has such a great reputation as far as taste and quality. The recipes that I’ve tried so far highlight why. The instructions were easy to follow and I’m definitely looking forward to trying more of the recipes. I truly enjoyed all of Naomi’s stories. They truly made it feel almost like we were sitting down and swapping recipes while sharing a cup of coffee and sharing life stories. The fresh strawberry cake and the peanut butter banana cake were both incredible. All of the photos make me want to try every single recipe. I highly recommend this cookbook for anyone who enjoys baking!

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Netgalley ARC-I grew up near an Amish and Mennonite community and got to enjoy the bakery and all their delicious goodies. There were some fondly remembered favorites on here and some others that were new to me. There were a few that I doubt are strictly Amish, but they all look equally good. I enjoyed her interludes on some cultural topics like singing and education as a counterpoint to her anecdotes from today. Great photos from all of the dishes as well as family photos adds the cozy feeling of stopping by for coffee and chatting with friends. I hope she offers further cookbooks.

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish baking...

I am so fascinated by Amish baking, probably because I haven't had much of it, but what I have, its been amazing. Hearty, rich, traditional and comforting. The pies have been outstanding.
The recipes are laid out in an easy to use manner, with plenty of color photos to accompany each recipe.
I highly recommend this book. You too, can enjoy this regional cookbook.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very comprehensive cookbook for any baker. The illustrations will make you hungry and the recipes are interspersed with information about the Amish. This would make a great gift for anyone who enjoys baking.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. It's delicious.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very east and yummy looking recipes. Very appetizing looking photos. I am very excited to try some of these desserts.

[Kathleen Dudek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic cookbook. I made the carrot cake and it is the best carrot cake recipe that I have ever tried!
I plan on making the frosted brownies next.