Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
If you have a soft spot for nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth treats, then Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This simple yet utterly delicious cookie brings together the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with just the right touch of sweetness, creating a comforting bite that feels like a warm hug from the past. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving a soulful snack, this recipe delivers every time with its tender texture and classic charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Plus, you probably already have these pantry staples ready to go!
- 1 cup peanut butter: The heart of the cookie, lending a creamy, nutty richness that defines its flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve a crisp edge around the soft center.
- 1 large egg: Binds all the ingredients together for a tender, chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a whisper of warmth to enhance the peanut butter’s natural flavor.
How to Make Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your oven ahead of time ensures even baking, which is crucial for these cookies to develop their perfect texture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix these until you get a smooth, homogenous dough. The simplicity of this step highlights just how effortless it is to whip up these cookies — no complicated creaming or sifting required!
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out dollops of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Don’t forget to space them a few inches apart as they’ll spread slightly while baking. Then, use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating that classic crisscross pattern that’s iconic for peanut butter cookies.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye out for the edges to become slightly golden while the centers remain soft. This delicate balance is the hallmark of Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe and what makes each bite iconic.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This resting time lets them firm up just enough so they don’t crumble when you transfer them to a cooling rack. Soon after, they’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Though these cookies shine all on their own, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking can elevate the flavor profile beautifully, giving a pleasant contrast to the sweetness.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk, a cup of rich coffee, or even a creamy vanilla ice cream scoop for a more indulgent treat. Their flavor complements so many drinks and desserts, making them a versatile snack option.
Creative Ways to Present
Try sandwiching two cookies with a smear of chocolate ganache or creamy peanut butter for a fun twist. Alternatively, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate and let them set. Not only do these variations add visual appeal, but they introduce delightful new textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for about a week, making it easy to enjoy this classic treat whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies to keep them fresh longer. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want a sweet bite, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Reheating
For that freshly baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes. This brings back the softness and enhances the peanut butter aroma that makes Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a pleasant texture with little bits of peanut throughout the cookie, making each bite even more interesting.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
This recipe is designed for quick preparation, so chilling isn’t necessary. Baking straight away works perfectly and delivers great results.
Can I substitute sugar with a healthier alternative?
You can experiment with alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup, but be aware it might alter the texture and sweetness level slightly.
How do I keep my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your peanut butter isn’t too oily. Sometimes stirring it well before measuring helps. Also, chilling the dough briefly can minimize spreading if needed.
Will these cookies be soft or crunchy?
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe results in cookies that are soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, giving you the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe—it’s an uncomplicated, timeless treat that carries the warmth of family and tradition in every bite. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these cookies as much as I do. Give them a try soon; they might just become your favorite go-to comfort cookie!
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Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These classic peanut butter cookies, inspired by Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, combine simple ingredients to create a sweet, nutty treat with a signature crisscross fork pattern. Perfectly crisp on the edges and chewy in the center, these cookies are easy to make and delightful to enjoy as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, forming a cohesive dough.
- Form Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Using a fork, gently press down on each ball to create a traditional crisscross pattern on the cookie surface.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookie edges become set and slightly golden, indicating they are cooked through.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they achieve the perfect texture.
- Serve: Enjoy these delicious peanut butter cookies as a sweet snack or dessert, perfect with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, bake an additional 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; chunky peanut butter will add extra crunch.
- Storing cookies in an airtight container helps keep them fresh for up to a week.
- To make these cookies gluten-free, verify that your sugar and peanut butter have no cross-contamination.
- Consider adding a pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter for balanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
