Grandma Carter’s Heartwarming Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Warm memories of Jimmy Carter’s childhood often swirl around his grandmother’s beloved peanut butter cookies.

Nostalgia whispers through every crumbly, sweet bite of this Southern classic.

Family recipes carry magic that transcends generations and kitchens.

Soft, nutty notes dance across your palate with each tender morsel.

Simple ingredients combine to create something truly extraordinary.

Generations have cherished these humble yet delectable treats passed down through careful hands.

You’ll want to experience this delightful connection to culinary heritage right now.

FAQs

• Are these cookies difficult to make?

These cookies are super easy and beginner-friendly. With just six ingredients and simple mixing steps, anyone can make them quickly, even if you’re not an experienced baker.

• Can I use natural or crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use natural or crunchy peanut butter. Just ensure it’s well-stirred and at room temperature for the best cookie texture and consistency.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these cookies?

No special equipment is needed. You’ll just require a mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, and a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern.

• Are these cookies gluten-free?

These cookies are naturally gluten-free since they don’t contain flour. However, always check your peanut butter label to confirm no gluten-containing ingredients are present.

The Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Grandma Loved

• Uncover Presidential Delights: Savor a classic recipe straight from Jimmy Carter's family kitchen, bringing a taste of history to your home.
• Simplify Baking Bliss: Craft these cookies with just a few pantry staples, making them perfect for spontaneous baking moments.
• Create Nostalgic Memories: Enjoy a timeless treat that connects generations through its comforting, familiar flavors and easy preparation.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by using different types of peanut butter or adding chocolate chips for a personal touch.

Ingredients List for Timeless Peanut Butter Cookies

• Peanut Butter: A creamy spread that provides the signature flavor and rich texture of these classic cookies.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp cookie texture.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie's structure.

• Vanilla: Brings a warm, sweet undertone that complements the peanut butter.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and creates a light, soft texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Parchment Paper: Ensures the cookies do not stick to the baking sheet and allows for easy removal.

How to Bake Cookies with That Perfect Soft-Crisp Texture

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.

Step 2: Mix Magical Cookie Ingredients

• Creamy peanut butter
• Granulated sugar
• Fresh egg
• Vanilla extract
• Baking soda
• Pinch of salt

Stir everything together until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Shape Tasty Cookie Balls

Roll the dough into cute little balls about 1 inch in size. Place these adorable cookie balls onto your prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Create Classic Crisscross Pattern

Using a fork, gently press down on each cookie ball to create the traditional crisscross design that makes these cookies instantly recognizable.

Step 5: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes.

Watch for the edges to turn a lovely light golden color.

Step 6: Cool And Enjoy

After pulling the cookies from the oven, let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.

Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. These peanut butter cookies are ready to munch and enjoy!

Secrets to Achieving the Best Peanut Butter Cookies

• Swap creamy peanut butter with natural or crunchy varieties for different textures and flavor profiles.
• Use gluten-free baking soda to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Reduce sugar amount by 25% for a less sweet version, perfect for health-conscious bakers.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor variation.

Fun Flavor Changes to Try with Your Cookies

• Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: Replace standard flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Low-Sugar Variation: Substitute regular sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content for diabetic-friendly option.
• Chocolate Chip Upgrade: Mix in dark chocolate chips or chopped peanuts into the dough before forming cookies for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use flax egg (ground flaxseed mixed with water) instead of chicken egg and swap traditional peanut butter for natural, unsweetened peanut butter to create plant-based version.

Great Treat Pairings to Enjoy with Your Cookies

• Family Picnic Delight: Pack these classic cookies in a vintage tin for a nostalgic family gathering, perfect for sharing stories and memories while enjoying a sweet treat together.
• Afternoon Tea Companion: Serve these peanut butter cookies alongside a warm cup of Earl Grey tea, creating a comforting mid-afternoon snack that brings Southern charm to your break.
• Ice Cream Sandwich Twist: Transform these cookies into a decadent dessert by sandwiching a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for a creamy, crunchy indulgence.
• Lunchbox Love Note: Tuck a couple of these homemade cookies into a child's lunchbox as a special surprise, connecting them to a piece of presidential family history with every bite.

Storing Cookies for Maximum Freshness and Flavor

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, keeping them soft and fresh.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain cookie texture.
• Freeze cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, wrapping them individually in plastic wrap first.
• Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving, or gently warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Best Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Grandma Carter’s peanut butter cookies honor Southern baking traditions with simple, nostalgic ingredients. Jimmy Carter’s family recipe delivers classic comfort and sweet memories for cookie enthusiasts who appreciate homemade goodness.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) peanut butter
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 egg

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) vanilla extract

Leavening and Seasoning:

• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 grams) baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 grams) salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and arrange parchment paper on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
2. Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a large mixing bowl until the mixture becomes smooth and uniform, creating a cohesive dough.
3. Gently shape the dough into small, uniform spheres approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring consistent size for even baking.
4. Position each dough ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving adequate space between them for spreading.
5. Using a fork, carefully press down on each ball in a precise crisscross pattern, creating distinctive ridges and flattening the cookies slightly.
6. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, watching for delicate golden edges as an indicator of doneness.
7. Remove from oven and allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, which helps them firm up and prevents breaking.
8. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack, letting them cool completely to achieve the perfect texture and prevent crumbling.

Notes

• Choose natural, creamy peanut butter without added sugar for a more authentic, rich flavor that enhances the cookie’s texture.
• Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before rolling to prevent sticky hands and create more uniform cookie shapes.
• Swap regular sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener for a lower glycemic index and healthier alternative that maintains delicious taste.
• Use gluten-free flour or almond flour to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping the classic peanut butter cookie experience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 183
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 116 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 16 mg