If you’re searching for a warm, nostalgic treat that tastes like a hug in cookie form, Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe will quickly become your go-to. This timeless Southern delight brings together a perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, sweet sugars, and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It’s more than just a cookie—it’s a little piece of history, carrying the love from a grandmother’s kitchen right to yours, promising moments of joy and comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add flavor, texture, and that signature peanut buttery goodness we all crave. Let’s dive into the essentials that make these cookies unforgettable.
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky): This is the star ingredient that gives the cookies their rich, nutty flavor and moist texture.
- 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a slight crispness on the cookie’s edges.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a lovely depth with molasses notes and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the dough just enough to keep the cookies from becoming too dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a subtle aromatic touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter’s richness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and ensures a tender yet sturdy cookie perfect for snacking.
How to Make Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Prepping your oven to 350°F (175°C) is essential for perfectly baked cookies. Make sure to line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them so the cookies release easily after baking, preventing any frustrating sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy—this ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Add the flour gradually, one cup at a time, mixing carefully. This slow incorporation helps you achieve a dough that’s just the right consistency: soft enough to roll, but firm enough to hold its shape during baking.
Step 4: Shape Your Cookies
Roll the dough into small balls about an inch in diameter. Placing them two inches apart on your prepared sheets avoids the dreaded cookie merge.
Step 5: Create the Classic Crisscross Pattern
Gently press a fork down on each dough ball to make that iconic peanut butter cookie pattern. Not only does this look charming, but it also flattens the cookies for even baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the trays into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until just golden around the edges. Keep an eye so that soft, chewy centers stay intact while those edges crisp up beautifully.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling allows the cookies to firm up just right and prevents any breakage. Then, savor the fruits of your labor!
How to Serve Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies shine as they are, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add an elegant touch. For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle some chopped roasted peanuts over the chocolate drizzle to echo that classic peanut butter crunch.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, complementing their sweetness perfectly. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert or with a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance out their rich flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe into a crowd-pleaser by stacking them in pretty cookie tins tied with a rustic ribbon for gifting. Alternatively, use them as an ice cream sandwich base or crumble them over yogurt parfaits for a crunchy surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to a week, making them perfect for weekday treats or unexpected guests.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies easily by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first and then transferring to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. This method prevents sticking and keeps them fresh for up to three months.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy your cookies warm, simply pop them in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or heat them briefly in an oven at 300°F (150°C). This helps revive their soft texture and intensifies that irresistible peanut butter aroma.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter gives these cookies a delightful texture with tiny peanut bits scattered throughout, adding an extra layer of crunch.
Is it necessary to use both brown sugar and white sugar?
Yes, the combination balances sweetness and moisture perfectly. Brown sugar adds chewiness and depth, while white sugar helps create crisp edges for that ideal cookie bite.
Can I substitute gluten-free flour?
Definitely. You can swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but be sure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the dough’s structure and texture in Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe.
How long do the cookies keep fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies remain fresh and soft for about five to seven days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, doubling the ingredients is straightforward and perfect if you want to share these classic cookies with a bigger crowd or stock your freezer with more sweet goodness.
Final Thoughts
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is more than just a simple cookie recipe—it’s a delicious connection to tradition and the comforting flavors of home. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these peanut butter cookies are sure to brighten any day. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become a cherished favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These classic peanut butter cookies, inspired by Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, are a delightful treat combining creamy or chunky peanut butter with rich brown sugar and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly soft with a slightly crisp edge, these cookies are easy to make and ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add the Flour: Gradually add the flour one cup at a time, stirring each addition until the dough comes together smoothly without dry spots.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing each ball approximately 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Create the Crisscross Pattern: Use a fork to press down gently on each dough ball, forming a classic crisscross pattern on top of the cookies.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Enjoy these peanut butter cookies once cooled, perfect with a glass of milk or as a sweet snack at any time.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, you can use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Ensure not to overbake to keep the cookies soft in the center.
- Use parchment paper to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
- These cookies freeze well; store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
