‘Amish New Year Feast’—this dish always reminds me of the Amish tradition of starting the year with good luck and good food!

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times. Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thick.
6. Cut into rounds and place on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm, with butter or honey.

4. **Apple Butter**
A spread that embodies the sweetness and simplicity of Amish life, apple butter is often served alongside biscuits or bread at the Amish New Year Feast. It’s made from slow-cooked apples, sugar, and spices, resulting in a rich, thick, and flavorful spread that enhances every bite.

**Recipe:**
– 4 cups apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon allspice

**Instructions:**
1. Place the chopped apples in a large pot with a bit of water. Simmer on low until the apples are soft, about 30 minutes.
2. Add the sugar and spices, and continue to simmer until the mixture thickens and reduces, about 1-2 hours.
3. Blend the apple mixture until smooth and creamy.
4. Store in jars and refrigerate. Serve as a spread for biscuits or bread.

### The Heart of the Amish New Year Feast

The Amish New Year Feast is about more than just food—it’s about coming together to celebrate life, love, and hope. The act of preparing and sharing these dishes is a reminder of the importance of community, family, and the simple pleasures in life. Each dish tells a story and carries with it a sense of heritage that’s passed down from generation to generation.

In Amish tradition, food is more than sustenance—it’s a symbol of blessings, good health, and prosperity. The Amish New Year Feast is a perfect example of how food can be used to express gratitude, bring people closer, and set intentions for the year ahead.

So, as you sit down to enjoy your own New Year’s feast, whether you are Amish or not, remember that the heart of any tradition lies in the people you share it with. Take a moment to reflect on the blessings of the past year and the ones to come, and enjoy the good food and good fortune that the new year promises.