Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s something truly special about a family recipe that has stood the test of time. These peanut butter cookies trace their roots back to Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, a woman who knew her way around the kitchen and had a deep appreciation for the humble peanut. With a soft, chewy center and a perfectly crisp edge, these cookies are a true Southern comfort.

I first discovered this recipe while researching old-fashioned Southern desserts. The combination of simple pantry staples and a rich, peanut-forward flavor had me hooked from the first bite. Whether you grew up in the South or just love a good homemade cookie, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home too.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with a cookie that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor. Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies offer a delicious balance of nostalgia and indulgence.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time—perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.

They’re also packed with peanut butter goodness. If you love the deep, nutty taste of peanut butter, these cookies won’t disappoint. They have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible.

Another reason to love these cookies? They’re budget-friendly. Made with simple, affordable ingredients, they’re a great way to enjoy a homemade treat without breaking the bank.

Lastly, they bring a taste of Southern tradition to your kitchen. This recipe is a piece of culinary history, tied to one of America’s most famous peanut farmers—President Jimmy Carter.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering the perfect peanut butter cookie experience.

Peanut Butter – The star of the show! Opt for a classic creamy peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy, for the best texture. If you prefer a more rustic cookie, chunky peanut butter works too, adding little bits of peanut crunch throughout.

Butter – Using real butter gives these cookies their rich, buttery flavor. Make sure it’s softened so it blends well with the other ingredients.

Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar – A mix of both sugars provides the ideal balance of chewiness and crispness. The brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel undertone, while the granulated sugar helps with structure.

Egg – A single large egg helps bind everything together and adds just the right amount of moisture to the dough.

Flour & Baking Soda – All-purpose flour gives these cookies their classic texture, while baking soda ensures they rise and spread just enough.

How to Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Making these cookies is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these steps for the best results:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for getting that perfect soft texture.

Next, add the egg and mix until fully incorporated. This helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the cookies their structure.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out small balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. For the classic peanut butter cookie look, use a fork to press a crisscross pattern into each cookie.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, just until the edges start to turn golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they’ll firm up as they cool.

Storage Options

These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or gifting.

Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

For even longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Simply let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Want a little extra texture? Swap creamy peanut butter for chunky peanut butter to add crunchy peanut bits throughout the cookies.

For a chocolate twist, fold in a handful of chocolate chips before baking. The peanut butter-chocolate combo is always a hit.

Looking for a gluten-free option? Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

If you like a salty-sweet balance, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a gourmet touch.

No matter how you make them, these Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies will always bring a touch of Southern warmth and history to your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!

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