Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

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I’ve always had a soft spot for recipes that come with a story, and this one is steeped in nostalgia and warmth. Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a bite of American history, made with simple ingredients and a lot of love. The texture is a perfect harmony of crisp edges and a soft, chewy middle, with that irresistible fork-pressed pattern that makes peanut butter cookies instantly recognizable.

Every time I make them, I imagine the comforting scent wafting through a cozy Southern kitchen, sunlight streaming in, and a plate of cookies cooling on the counter. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t just fill your belly—it feeds the soul. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself on a quiet afternoon, these cookies deliver a little piece of home in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

These peanut butter cookies strike the perfect balance between salty and sweet, offering that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with a satisfying peanutty depth. The recipe is straightforward and unfussy, making it ideal for bakers of any skill level. Plus, it’s adaptable—you can enjoy them plain, dip them in chocolate, or sprinkle them with a pinch of flaky sea salt for a gourmet twist.

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What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

For the most authentic flavor and texture, a classic creamy peanut butter works beautifully—think of the kind you’d find in most pantries in the mid-20th century. It binds the dough well and ensures a smooth, even crumb in the baked cookies. Natural peanut butters (the kind with oil separation) can work too, but they tend to make the dough a bit crumbly unless you adjust the dry ingredients slightly. If you love a more rustic bite, crunchy peanut butter is also an option—it adds little bursts of peanut pieces throughout each cookie.

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Options for Substitutions

• Sugar Swap – You can replace half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer, slightly caramelized flavor.
• Gluten-Free Flour – A good quality 1:1 gluten-free baking mix can replace the all-purpose flour without compromising texture.
• Vegan Version – Use plant-based butter and substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, rested for 5 minutes).
• Nut-Free Twist – Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for those with peanut allergies—this will keep the nutty essence without the peanuts.
• Extra Flavor – Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a subtle flavor boost.

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

• Peanut Butter – The heart of the recipe, delivering that rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a smooth, buttery base that balances the peanut flavor and creates tender cookies.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create the slightly crisp exterior.
• Brown Sugar – Brings a hint of molasses depth and a chewy bite.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients together and gives the cookies structure.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the backbone of the dough, giving the cookies their shape.
• Baking Soda – Ensures the cookies rise just enough for that perfect balance of soft and crisp.
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors, keeping the sweetness in check.

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Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, giving the cookies a softer texture.

Step 3

Beat in the egg until fully combined, making sure the mixture is smooth. This binds everything together and prepares the dough for the dry ingredients.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing can make the cookies tough.

Step 5

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork in a crisscross pattern—the classic peanut butter cookie look.

Step 6

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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How Long to Cook the Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies bake best at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are just beginning to turn golden while the centers still look slightly soft—this ensures they stay tender once cooled. Remember, cookies continue to firm up as they rest on the baking sheet after coming out of the oven, so don’t overbake.

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Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

• Cream Thoroughly – Spend a few extra minutes creaming the butter, peanut butter, and sugars together for the fluffiest texture.
• Measure Accurately – Slight changes in flour or sugar can alter the texture, so level off your measuring cups.
• Chill the Dough – If your kitchen is warm or you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 20–30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Skip the Fork Press – This isn’t just for looks—it helps the cookies bake evenly.
• Cool Before Moving – Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a rack to avoid breaking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using Natural Peanut Butter Without Adjustments – The extra oil can cause spreading and a greasy texture unless the flour is increased slightly.
• Overbaking – Peanut butter cookies can go from perfect to dry quickly; pull them when the centers still look a bit soft.
• Skipping the Salt – Even a pinch makes a huge difference in balancing sweetness and enhancing flavor.
• Not Mixing Properly – Incomplete creaming or uneven flour incorporation can cause inconsistent texture.
• Crowding the Pan – Give each cookie enough space to spread evenly without merging into its neighbor.

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What to Serve With Peanut Butter Cookies?

1. A Cold Glass of Milk

The ultimate cookie companion—creamy, cool, and perfect for dunking.

2. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The bitter notes pair beautifully with the sweet, nutty cookies.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Create a simple ice cream sandwich for a nostalgic dessert.

4. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle

A little warm chocolate over the cookies turns them into an indulgent treat.

5. Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the richness.

6. Hot Cocoa

Perfect for cozy evenings with a plate of fresh cookies.

7. Peanut Butter Milkshake

For the peanut butter lovers who just can’t get enough.

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Storage Instructions

Once cooled completely, store these peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave before enjoying.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per cookie (based on a batch of 24)

• Calories: ~160
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 110mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of texture and small peanut pieces, which can make the cookies even more satisfying.

2. Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Not always, but chilling for 20–30 minutes can help prevent spreading and make thicker cookies.

3. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just be sure to mix in batches so the dough is evenly combined.

4. How do I make them chewier?

Swap half the granulated sugar for brown sugar and slightly underbake them for a softer center.

5. Can I make the cookies smaller or larger?

Yes—adjust baking times accordingly. Smaller cookies bake in about 8–9 minutes, while larger ones may need up to 14 minutes.

6. Will natural peanut butter work?

It can, but you may need to add a tablespoon of extra flour to compensate for the additional oil.

7. Can I add chocolate chips?

Definitely—about 1 cup of chocolate chips makes a delicious variation.

8. How do I keep them soft after baking?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—the bread will help retain moisture in the cookies.

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Conclusion

Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies aren’t just a recipe—they’re a warm invitation to slow down and savor something homemade. With their perfect balance of sweet and salty, soft and crisp, they’re the kind of treat that brings people together. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or add your own twist, these cookies promise a bite of comfort and a touch of history in every crumb.

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