Grandma Carter’s Famous Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Southern kitchens whisper tales of comfort, where the warmth of homemade peanut butter cookies from jimmy carter’s grandmother lingers like a sweet memory.

Soft, crumbly, and rich with nostalgia, these cookies carry the essence of traditional Southern baking.

Every bite tells a story of simple ingredients blended with love and generations of culinary wisdom.

The recipe passes down through time, preserving a delectable slice of americana.

Crisp edges and tender centers promise a delightful treat that connects you to a treasured family tradition.

You’ll savor each morsel, knowing these cookies represent more than just a sweet indulgence, they’re a delicious piece of history.

Let’s bake and honor the legacy of a cherished family recipe.

Baking Peanut Butter Cookies, Step by Step

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Turn on the oven and set it to 350°F.

Grab a baking sheet and cover it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Blend Creamy Goodness

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, white sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter.

Whip these ingredients together until they become smooth and fluffy, creating a delightful base for your cookies.

Step 3: Add Moisture And Flavor

Crack an egg into the mixture and pour in the vanilla extract.

Stir everything together until well combined, creating a rich and aromatic blend.

Step 4: Create The Dry Mix

In a separate bowl, grab your flour, baking soda, and salt.

Whisk these dry ingredients until they’re evenly distributed and look like a uniform powder.

Step 5: Merge Wet And Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients.

Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring everything blends smoothly without overmixing.

Step 6: Shape The Cookies

Roll the dough into small, round balls about the size of a golf ball.

Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

Step 7: Make The Classic Fork Design

Take a fork and gently press down on each cookie ball, creating a classic crisscross pattern.

This not only looks great but helps the cookies cook evenly.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 9: Cool And Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on a wire rack.

Allow them to cool completely before enjoying these delicious treats.

Tips for Perfectly Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

• Create classic crisscross marks by gently pressing each cookie ball with a fork, ensuring even thickness and traditional cookie appearance.
• Use equal parts granulated and brown sugar for a perfect blend of sweetness and deep caramel undertones that enhance the peanut butter flavor.
• Bring butter, egg, and peanut butter to room temperature before mixing to achieve smoother, more consistent cookie dough.
• Lightly grease fork tines with cooking spray when creating crisscross patterns to prevent dough from sticking and ensure clean cookie shapes.
• Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness and prevent them from becoming dry or crumbly.

Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter substitute.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce sugar quantities and use monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a diabetic-friendly alternative.
• Chocolate Chip Upgrade: Fold in dark chocolate chips or chopped peanuts into the dough for extra crunch and flavor complexity.

Serving Suggestions for Peanut Butter Cookies

• Peanut Butter Paradise Plating: Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board with a cold glass of milk for a nostalgic farmhouse feel.
• Dessert Companion Delight: Pair these classic cookies with vanilla bean ice cream or a warm chocolate drizzle for extra indulgence.
• Sweet Gift Packaging: Stack cookies in a vintage tin or clear cellophane bag tied with a gingham ribbon for a charming homemade present.
• Tea Time Elegance: Serve alongside chamomile tea or hot cocoa for a cozy afternoon treat that warms the heart and soul.

Storing Peanut Butter Cookies with Care

• Store cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and preventing crumbling.
• Carefully place cookies in a freezer-safe container with wax paper separating each layer, lasting up to 3 months for longer preservation.
• Keep cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for 3-4 days, ensuring they remain crisp and delicious.
• Warm cookies briefly in microwave for 10-15 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 300°F for 2-3 minutes to restore original softness and warmth.

FAQs

• Are these cookies difficult to make?

No, these peanut butter cookies are super easy and beginner-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients and basic mixing steps, anyone can create delicious cookies quickly.

• Can I use different types of peanut butter?

Yes, you can use creamy or crunchy peanut butter. Just ensure it’s smooth and not separated. Natural peanut butter might change the texture slightly, so stick with standard commercial brands for best results.

• Why do I need to make a crisscross pattern with a fork?

The fork creates signature cookie ridges that help cookies bake evenly and gives them the classic peanut butter cookie look. It also helps flatten the cookies for consistent baking.

Why Peanut Butter Cookies Are Timeless

• Quick Family Favorite: Whip up these classic peanut butter cookies that bring warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen, perfect for sharing with loved ones during casual gatherings or cozy afternoons.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: Create delicious treats with just a few simple pantry staples, making this recipe budget-friendly and accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Stress-Free Baking Experience: Enjoy a straightforward recipe that requires no complex techniques, allowing even beginner bakers to confidently craft delectable cookies with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies work wonderfully for potlucks, school events, family reunions, or as a sweet surprise for unexpected guests, guaranteed to bring smiles and comfort.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Peanut Butter Cookies

• Peanut Butter: A creamy spread that provides the signature flavor and rich texture of these classic cookies.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp cookie exterior.
• Brown Sugar: Brings moisture and a deeper caramel-like sweetness to the cookie.
• Butter: Contributes to the rich flavor and helps create a tender cookie texture.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and provides structure to the cookie.

• All-Purpose Flour: The primary dry ingredient that gives structure to the cookies.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread during baking.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor that complements the peanut butter.

Jimmy Carters Grandmothers Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies blend Southern hospitality with sweet nostalgia. Classic comfort meets family tradition in these simple, irresistible treats that connect generations through genuine homestyle baking.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg

Flour and Leavening Agents:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F and arrange parchment paper on a baking sheet for optimal cookie preparation.
2. Combine peanut butter, sugars, and butter in a mixing bowl, blending until achieving a smooth, uniform consistency.
3. Incorporate egg and vanilla extract into the mixture, stirring until well integrated.
4. Separately whisk flour, baking soda, and salt to create a dry ingredient blend.
5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring thorough and even incorporation.
6. Form dough into compact spheres approximately one inch in diameter.
7. Position cookie balls onto prepared baking sheet, maintaining adequate spacing between each.
8. Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball, creating distinctive crisscross imprints.
9. Transfer baking sheet to preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges transform to a delicate golden hue.
10. Remove cookies and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, enabling them to set and develop a crisp texture.

Notes

• Ensure peanut butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing and easier blending with other ingredients.
• Use creamy peanut butter for more consistent texture, though natural or crunchy varieties can work with slight adjustments.
• Avoid overmixing dough to prevent tough cookies; mix just until ingredients are combined for tender, delicate results.
• For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free baking blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 147 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 95 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 17 mg