What makes a family recipe truly unforgettable? This vintage cookie recipe from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother is a masterclass in comfort food, combining rich peanut butter with simple homemade ingredients for an easy and indulgent treat. Save this idea for your next family favorite weeknight dessert.

peanut butter cookies on a plate with the words jimmy carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies

Introduction

Imagine the warmth of a homemade cookie, fresh from the oven, with the unmistakable richness of peanut butter. These peanut butter cookies, inspired by Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s recipe, are not just a treat but an experience. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only basic ingredients that you likely have in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it achieves with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are sure to delight both kids and adults with their perfect balance of crunch and chew.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of peanut butter, sugar, eggs, and flour creates a cookie that is both familiar and comforting, with a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The recipe is straightforward and simple to follow, making it perfect for those new to baking or looking for a quick dessert to prepare.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, these cookies yield impressive results. They are perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or as a gift for friends and family.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies include creamy peanut butter, white granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and optionally, chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture. For those looking for substitutions, natural peanut butter can replace creamy peanut butter for a slightly different flavor profile, and oats can be added to the dough for extra texture.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
3. Step 3: Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If using, stir in chocolate chips or chopped peanuts.
4. Step 4: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Flatten the dough balls slightly with a fork or your fingers. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Handy Tips

• For chewier cookies, bake for 8-10 minutes.! For crisper cookies, bake for 12-14 minutes.
• Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent tough cookies.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking these cookies is 375°F (190°C). It’s crucial to keep an eye on the cookies during the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges. For those without a thermometer, ensure your oven is preheated correctly and keep a close eye on the baking time, adjusting as necessary.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these cookies comes from the baking time and the optional addition of chopped peanuts. For a crunchier cookie, bake for a few minutes longer. If you prefer a chewier cookie, bake for a shorter time. The combination of crunchy edges and chewy centers is a hallmark of well-made peanut butter cookies.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking to help the cookies retain their shape and bake up with a better texture.
• Use a combination of white and brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
• For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle the cookies with sea salt or chopped peanuts before baking.

Storage Tips

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when needed.
• Consider using glass containers with tight-fitting lids for the freshest taste.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These cookies are perfect for gifting, especially during the holidays. Consider packaging them in decorative jars, tins, or bags tied with a ribbon. Adding a personal touch, such as a handwritten note or a small memento, can make the gift even more special. If you’re feeling creative, decorate the cookies themselves with icing or sprinkles before packaging.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the dough for a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after baking for a peanut butter blossom cookie.
• Ingredient swaps: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your cookies turn out too hard, they may have been overbaked. If they’re too soft, they may not have been baked long enough.
• Ingredient replacements: Always try to use the ingredients called for in the recipe for the best results. However, some substitutions like using oats or different types of sugar can work in a pinch.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cookies during the baking time. They are done when lightly golden around the edges. Overcooked cookies will be dark brown and hard, while undercooked cookies will be pale and soft.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months or freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature or thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours for a gluten-free version, though results may vary.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to make more cookies. Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven.

Conclusion

Making Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies is a journey back to the simplicity and warmth of homemade baking. With their perfect balance of flavors and textures, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe, adding your own twists and flavors to make it truly yours. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or as a gift for others, the joy of baking and sharing these cookies is undeniable. So, go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the warmth and love that comes with every delicious bite.