By Joy Schrock, President of Berlin Natural Bakery

My name is Joy Schrock and I am the President of Berlin Natural Bakery.  As you are probably aware Berlin Natural Bakery is an all spelt bakery...and you may be wondering why there is a section on our blog for Amish Country Recipes. My heritage is Amish.  My Grandpa Schrock was an Amish Bishop and both of my parents were born and raised Old Order Amish.  Berlin Natural Bakery is located in the largest Amish community in the world...Berlin, Ohio. When I am doing demos at a natural health food store or a presentation to a buyer, I normally spend at least ten minutes answering people's questions about the Amish way of life.  What is common knowledge to me, seems to be a mystery to others. Due to the overwhelming interest that people have regarding the Amish, I have dedicated several categories on the blog specifically to answer those questions and to help teach you about the Amish way of life. I myself do not belong to the Amish church.  I have chosen not to practice the Amish religion.  However, I most certainly value my heritage and am grateful to have had an upbringing that taught me good values, good stewardship of the land and our resources as well as a love of family and a responsibility to the community. The recipes that I will be sharing are recipes that are cherished amongst the Amish community.  Many of them have been passed down from generation to generation.  Different sects of Amish will use different ingredients, very much like different regions in Italy use different ingredients and cooking methods.  The recipes that I will be sharing are primarily from my family and from Holmes County Ohio's Amish community. The Amish are known for cooking on a budget.  They are experts at using their resources wisely.  This most certainly includes the ingredients they use for the foods they prepare.  Most of the recipes are made using real butter, whole milk, sugar, farm fresh eggs, etc.  Eating the types of food that the Amish do for every meal is probably not recommended. Keep in mind that they Amish are up between 4am and 5am and are very physically active throughout the day.  Their bodies need more fuel to burn.  So as always, my suggestion is "everything in moderation". These recipes are heavenly...but most of the time a little goes a long way.  More than likely you will be checking this blog frequently, so remember to bookmark it for future use. BAKED OATMEAL Ingredients: 3 cups Quick (instant) Oats 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional) Cinnamon (to taste) I use 1 teaspoon 1 cup whole milk 1/2 cup oil 1/2 cup real maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 eggs raisins, nuts or coconut (optional) I use none of these Directions:  In a large bowl mix oatmeal, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and raisins/nuts or coconut (optional).  In a separate bowl beat eggs.  Add to beaten eggs, milk, oil, maple syrup and vanilla.  Stir till mixed.  Add to oat mixture, mix well.  Pour into a lightly greased 10x10 pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or when top starts to turn golden brown.  Serve warm w/milk.  I normally serve it warm with plain yogurt and fresh fruit in season.   Leftovers can be stored refrigerated and reheated in the microwave.   I normally serve this to my out of town guests for breakfast.  Always a big hit and my #1 requested recipe. Till next time... Peace & Blessings, Joy