There’s something about Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies that instantly transports you to a simpler, sweeter time. Imagine the aroma of warm, nutty cookies filling a cozy kitchen, the anticipation building as they cool on the rack. This recipe isn’t just a scrumptious treat; it’s a slice of Southern heritage that’s stood the test of time, delighting generations with its perfect blend of creamy peanut butter, a hint of brown sugar, and that signature crisscross top. Whether you grew up with these cookies or you’re discovering them for the first time, this is the kind of recipe that becomes a family tradition after just one bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies is in their simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special to the party, from the richness of peanut butter to the delicate hint of salt that balances every bite. Here’s what you’ll need to make these unforgettable cookies:
- Peanut butter (1 cup, smooth or chunky): The star of the show! Choose your favorite for a classic flavor or a bit of crunch.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Brings richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough and creates a lovely crispness.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds depth and a subtle molasses note that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and gives the cookies structure.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The backbone of the dough, ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Gives the cookies a gentle lift and softness.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the baking powder for just the right amount of spread.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the wonderful flavors and keeps things balanced.
- Extra granulated sugar (for rolling): Creates that classic sugary sparkle on the outside of each cookie.
How to Make Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. This little step ensures your cookies bake up golden without any hassle.
Step 2: Cream the Peanut Butter, Butter, and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is key for that classic, tender texture in Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies, so don’t rush it—give it a couple of minutes for the best results.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack the large egg into your mixing bowl and beat until it’s fully incorporated. The egg helps everything bind together, giving your cookies the perfect structure so they’re soft in the middle but sturdy enough to hold up when dunked in milk.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the leaveners and salt are evenly distributed, so each cookie bakes up just right—no surprises!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Take your time here; overmixing can make the cookies tough, and you want these to be irresistibly tender.
Step 6: Scoop and Roll the Dough
Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar for that iconic sparkle and a subtle crunch on the outside. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Create the Crisscross Pattern
With a fork, gently press each dough ball twice in opposite directions to make that unmistakable crisscross pattern. This not only gives Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies their signature look but also helps them bake evenly.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. They’ll look a bit soft in the center, but that’s exactly what you want—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This little wait is tough, but it ensures every cookie is perfectly set and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Garnishes
If you want a little extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just as the cookies come out of the oven. It’s a simple touch that really brings out the savory-sweet notes in Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a few chopped peanuts also make for an irresistible finish.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, but they’re also wonderful alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee. For a Southern-inspired dessert platter, serve them with other classics like lemon bars or pecan pie squares.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack a few cookies in a cellophane bag tied with a ribbon for a sweet homemade gift. Or, make ice cream sandwiches by nestling a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies. For parties, arrange them on a vintage platter with a little note about their presidential heritage!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. They’ll stay soft and flavorful, making them a great treat to have on hand for snacks or lunchboxes.
Freezing
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies freeze beautifully. Simply place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to three months, so you can enjoy a taste of nostalgia any time you like.
Reheating
For that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for 10 seconds. If you’re reheating several, a quick stint in a 300°F oven for a few minutes will revive their fresh-from-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular?
You can, but natural peanut butter tends to separate and can make the dough a bit oily. For the best texture in Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies, stick with classic creamy or chunky peanut butter without added oil separation.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Swap in a cup-for-cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The cookies will still be delicious and chewy, with that same nostalgic peanut butter taste.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles (or even triples) beautifully if you’re baking for a crowd or want to stock your freezer. Just be sure to mix in batches for the fluffiest dough.
Why do you use both baking powder and baking soda?
Using both helps the cookies rise and spread just the right amount, resulting in those signature soft centers and lightly crisp edges that make Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies so special.
What’s the best way to get that perfect crisscross pattern?
Dip your fork in a bit of sugar before pressing—it prevents sticking and creates a pretty, textured finish on top of each cookie.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a beloved classic—they’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and full of heartwarming nostalgia. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to bring a little extra joy to your kitchen. Give them a try, and you might just find yourself starting a new family tradition, one delicious bite at a time.
Print
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s classic peanut butter cookies, a cherished Southern family recipe that delivers rich, nutty flavor with a tender, chewy texture. These easy-to-make cookies combine creamy or crunchy peanut butter with simple pantry staples, offering a nostalgic treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Rolling
- Extra granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream the Base: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process creates a smooth, airy texture essential for the cookies.
- Add Egg: Beat in the large egg to the creamed mixture until fully combined, which helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the peanut butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Form Cookies: Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to add a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Shape and Bake: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Use a fork to gently press a crisscross pattern on top of each cookie for the classic peanut butter cookie look.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly baked without drying out.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger peanut flavor, opt for crunchy peanut butter or add chopped peanuts to the dough.
- These cookies freeze well; store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months for fresh taste later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
