Grandma Carter’s Heartwarming Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Baking these Jimmy Carter's grandmothers peanut butter cookies brings back memories of Southern comfort and sweet simplicity.

Crisp afternoons in Georgia inspired this classic treat that connects generations.

Soft, crumbly textures melt on your tongue with each buttery bite.

Crafted with love and traditional techniques, these cookies whisper stories of rural kitchens and cherished family moments.

You won't be able to resist breaking off another piece of this delectable Southern treasure.

Why Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Are So Good

• Whip Up Quickly: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for novice bakers or those craving a fast sweet treat.
• Comfort Cookie Delight: Crafted from a presidential family recipe, these peanut butter cookies offer warmth and a classic taste that brings memories of home-baked goodness.
• Kid-Friendly Baking Adventure: With just four ingredients and easy mixing technique, children can join in the baking process, creating fun family bonding moments while learning basic cooking skills.
• Minimal Cleanup Champion: Using only one bowl and requiring no complicated equipment, this recipe ensures a stress-free baking experience with minimal dishes to wash afterward.

Ingredients for Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

• Peanut Butter: A creamy and rich spread that provides the primary flavor and texture for these classic cookies.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp, golden exterior on the cookies.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s structure.

• Vanilla: A classic flavoring that adds depth and warmth to the cookie’s taste.

• Fork: Used to create the signature crisscross pattern on top of the cookies.

• Baking Sheet, Wire Rack: Essential tools for baking and cooling the cookies to perfection.

Step-by-Step Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Turn your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and get ready.

Step 2: Mix Cookie Ingredients

• Smooth peanut butter
• Granulated sugar
• Fresh egg
• Vanilla extract (optional but recommended)

Step 3: Create Smooth Cookie Dough

Stir all ingredients together until they become a perfectly blended, soft mixture.

Use a wooden spoon or electric mixer to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 4: Shape Adorable Cookie Balls

Roll the dough into small, charming one-inch round balls with your hands.

Place each ball gently on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

Step 5: Create Classic Crisscross Design

Use a fork to press down on each cookie ball, creating a beautiful traditional crisscross pattern.

This not only looks amazing but helps the cookies bake evenly.

Step 6: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Watch for light golden brown edges that signal your cookies are done.

Step 7: Cool And Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set.

Then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these melt-in-your-mouth treats with a cold glass of milk!

Insider Tips for Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

• Warm peanut butter slightly at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother cookie texture.
• Use parchment paper or silicone baking mat to prevent cookies from sticking and ensure easy removal.
• Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to create consistent cookie sizes for even baking and professional appearance.
• Substitute traditional ingredients with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free baking mix for sensitive diets.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and soft texture.

Variations on Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

• Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: Replace regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Friendly Version: Swap egg with ground flaxseed mixed with water or use commercial egg replacer to create plant-based cookies.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of traditional sugar, reducing overall calorie content for health-conscious bakers.
• Protein-Packed Variation: Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder to boost protein content and create a more nutritious cookie option.

Serving Ideas for Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

• Milk Dunk Delight: Pair these classic peanut butter cookies with a cold glass of milk for a treat that brings back childhood memories.
• Dessert Companion: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience that elevates the simple cookie.
• Tea Time Twist: Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of chai or chamomile tea for a cozy afternoon snack that warms the soul.
• Gift-Worthy Packaging: Stack cookies in a clear mason jar with a ribbon, creating a homemade gift that shows love and personal touch.

Storage Tips for Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper for up to 5 days. Keep them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent crumbling.
• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container with wax paper between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Warm cookies at 275F for 3-5 minutes to restore their soft texture. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer for even heating.
• Heat cookies for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. Check carefully to avoid overcooking, which can make them hard and dry.

FAQs

• Are these cookies difficult to make?

No, these cookies are incredibly simple! With just four basic ingredients and minimal steps, even beginner bakers can successfully create these delicious peanut butter cookies.

• Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but you might need to stir it well and potentially adjust the sugar since natural peanut butter can be less sweet.

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

The fork pattern helps the cookies bake evenly and creates the classic peanut butter cookie look. It also helps flatten the cookies for consistent baking.

• How many cookies does this recipe typically yield?

This recipe usually makes about 18-24 cookies, depending on the size of the balls you roll.

Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Grandma Carter’s peanut butter cookies bring classic home-baked charm. Crisp edges and soft centers carry the warmth of family traditions in every bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C), ensuring an even temperature for optimal baking.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly amalgamate peanut butter, granulated sugar, a single egg, and a splash of vanilla extract, creating a smooth, uniform mixture.
3. Gently knead the dough until all ingredients are perfectly integrated, avoiding overworking the mixture.
4. Craft small, uniform spheres approximately 1 inch in diameter, positioning them strategically on an untreated baking sheet with ample spacing.
5. Employ a fork to delicately press each dough ball, generating a distinctive crisscross texture that enhances visual appeal and promotes even cooking.
6. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing cookies to transform for 10-12 minutes until edges acquire a gentle golden-brown hue.
7. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set.
8. Move them to a wire rack to cool completely for the best crisp-yet-tender texture.

Notes

• Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter to control sweetness and reduce added sugars.
• Experiment with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or monk fruit for low-glycemic options.
• Use gluten-free flour or almond flour to make these cookies suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent sticky hands and achieve more uniform cookies.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 170 kcal
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 13 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg