Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are more than just a tasty treat; they are a bite of nostalgia, offering a sweet connection to the past. Whether you’re a fan of history or simply love peanut butter cookies, this recipe will take you on a journey of flavor and memories. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create cookies that bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are incredibly easy to make and deliver a satisfying, rich peanut butter flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something to share with friends and family, these cookies are perfect for any time. Not only do they bake in just 12 minutes, but they also provide a comforting, nostalgic taste that takes you back to simpler times. Plus, you can easily customize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until well blended.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined.

6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Use a fork to flatten each cookie slightly and create a crisscross pattern on top.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 12 minutes

• Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful chocolatey surprise.

• Nutty Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.

• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and extra nutrition.

• Maple Flavor: Replace vanilla extract with maple extract for a unique twist that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

Storage/Reheating

To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes or microwave them for a quick, soft treat.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies a nice texture, although it may slightly change the consistency of the dough. The flavor will still be delicious.

How should I store these cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can substitute eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Are these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and you can enjoy these cookies without worry.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?

Yes, chocolate chips and chopped nuts can be mixed into the dough for added flavor and texture. About 1/2 cup of each should do the trick!

How long do these cookies take to bake?

These cookies bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and take them out when the edges are lightly golden.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

You can, but it might affect the texture slightly since natural peanut butter is thinner and has less fat. You may need to add a bit more flour to balance the dough.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, try refrigerating it for 10-15 minutes. This will help firm it up and make it easier to scoop and shape.

Conclusion

Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless treat that brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia. With simple ingredients and a short baking time, these cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own. Whether you add a twist of chocolate or enjoy them as is, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create memories with these delightful, flavorful cookies!