Jimmy Carters Grandmothers Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

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 through delicious nostalgia.

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

peanut butter lovers will adore the rich, nutty flavor packed into every morsel.

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

Each cookie carries a hint of warmth and heritage that feels like a delightful culinary embrace.

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

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 nostalgic 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.

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

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 nostalgic 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

Base Ingredients:
  • 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.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla: A classic flavoring that adds depth and warmth to the cookie's taste.
Optional Ingredients:
  • Fork: Used to create the signature crisscross pattern on top of the cookies.
Baking Essentials:
  • 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-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 for some delicious baking magic.

Step 2: Mix Magical Cookie Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your creamy 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.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Jimmy Carters Grandmothers Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Jimmy Carters Grandmothers Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 35 reviews

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

Description

Grandma Carter’s peanut butter cookies blend Southern hospitality with rich Georgia heritage. Sweet, crumbly treats connect generations, offering pure comfort with each nostalgic bite you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

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

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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. Remove from oven and permit cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, facilitating initial stabilization and preventing potential crumbling.
  8. Carefully transfer the delicate cookies onto a wire cooling rack, enabling complete cooling and achieving the ideal 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, Snacks
  • 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
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star