Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s something truly special about a family recipe passed down through generations. These peanut butter cookies come straight from the heart of the Carter family, originating from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s kitchen. With their rich peanut flavor, crisp edges, and irresistibly soft centers, these cookies are a timeless classic that deserves a place in every baker’s repertoire.

this Recipe

I first came across this recipe while researching traditional Southern desserts, and I was immediately drawn to its simplicity. Made with pantry staples and requiring minimal effort, it’s the kind of cookie recipe that feels like home with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with an old-fashioned treat that never goes out of style. This peanut butter cookie recipe has all the charm of a beloved family tradition with the ease of a modern baking favorite.

First and foremost, these cookies are incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute desserts or unexpected guests.

The flavor is deeply peanutty, thanks to the generous use of peanut butter. Unlike some recipes that skimp on the main ingredient, this one lets the rich, nutty taste shine through in every bite.

These cookies also strike the perfect balance between crispy and chewy. The edges have a satisfying crunch, while the centers remain soft and tender, creating a texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Best of all, they require no fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a complete beginner, you can make these cookies with confidence and ease.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these peanut butter cookies comes from their simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays an important role in delivering the perfect flavor and texture.

Peanut Butter is, of course, the star of the show. Opt for creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture or chunky peanut butter if you prefer a bit of crunch. Avoid natural peanut butter, as its oil separation can affect the cookie’s consistency.

Butter adds richness and helps create the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.

Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar work together to provide the ideal balance of sweetness and chewiness. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel note, while granulated sugar helps create those crispy edges.

Egg acts as a binder, ensuring the cookies hold together while baking. For best results, use a room-temperature egg to help it incorporate evenly into the dough.

All-Purpose Flour gives the cookies structure. Be sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid dry, crumbly cookies.

How To Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Making these peanut butter cookies is a simple process that fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of home-baked goodness.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and both sugars until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a soft, tender cookie, as it helps incorporate air into the dough.

Beat in the egg, mixing until fully combined. Then, gradually add the flour, stirring just until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating the classic crisscross pattern that peanut butter cookies are known for.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underdone, but they will firm up as the cookies cool. Let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

These peanut butter cookies store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead treat. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.

For longer storage, place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a freshly baked taste.

If you prefer to freeze the dough instead, roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. With a few tweaks, you can customize the cookies to suit your taste or dietary needs.

For a chocolatey twist, stir in a handful of chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in dessert heaven.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will remain just as delicious.

For a salty-sweet contrast, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies before baking. This enhances the peanut flavor and adds a gourmet touch.

Want a little extra crunch? Fold in chopped peanuts or swap creamy peanut butter for the chunky variety. The added texture makes each bite even more satisfying.

No matter how you choose to make them, these peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Happy baking!

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