Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There's something timeless about the aroma of freshly baked peanut butter cookies filling the kitchen. Warm, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet, they bring comfort in every bite. And when the recipe comes with a bit of history—like this one from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother—you know you're in for a real treat.

I first came across this recipe while reading about the Carter family's deep roots in Georgia, where peanuts played a crucial role in their livelihood. Knowing that this cookie recipe was passed down through generations, I couldn’t wait to try it myself. Let’s just say, one bite in, and I was hooked!

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

If you're a fan of old-fashioned, no-fuss baking, this recipe is for you. These peanut butter cookies are the perfect balance of chewy and crisp, with a rich peanut flavor that shines through in every bite.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time—no fancy equipment required.

They also have a classic homemade taste that you won’t find in store-bought versions. The combination of simple ingredients creates a cookie that is both nostalgic and delicious.

Plus, they hold a bit of history. Knowing that this was a favorite in the Carter household makes them even more special. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good story with your sweets, these cookies deliver.

And if you love a soft yet slightly crisp texture, you’ll adore these. They have that perfect balance—crispy on the edges, but tender in the center.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, classic ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so special.

Peanut Butter is, of course, the star of the show. Opt for a traditional creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for the best consistency. Natural peanut butters can separate and may alter the texture of the cookies.

Butter adds richness and a slight crispness to the edges. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature before mixing—it will incorporate much better and help create that perfect cookie dough texture.

Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar work together to create the ideal chewiness and depth of flavor. The brown sugar keeps the cookies moist, while the granulated sugar adds the slight crispness to the exterior.

Eggs bind everything together and help give the cookies their structure. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.

Flour, Baking Soda, and a Pinch of Salt complete the dough. All-purpose flour is perfect for achieving the classic peanut butter cookie texture, while baking soda ensures they rise just the right amount.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a mixing bowl, a hand or stand mixer, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

How To Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Making these cookies is as easy as mixing, scooping, and baking. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by creaming together the butter, peanut butter, and both sugars in a large mixing bowl. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy—this helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Next, beat in the eggs and a splash of vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the nutty sweetness and adds depth to the cookies.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworked dough can lead to tough cookies.

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet. For the classic peanut butter cookie look, use a fork to press a crisscross pattern into the tops of each cookie.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage Options

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

To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer them slightly warm, just pop one in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

For longer storage, these cookies freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Want to freeze the dough instead? Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls into a bag and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe is perfect as is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own!

If you love chunky cookies, try using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.

For an extra indulgent twist, stir in a handful of chocolate chips or chopped peanuts before baking. The melty chocolate pairs beautifully with the peanut butter.

Need a gluten-free option? Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. These cookies hold up well with the substitution.

Want to make them extra soft? Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dry ingredients. It helps keep the cookies pillowy and tender.

For a sweeter touch, sprinkle a little coarse sea salt on top before baking. The salty-sweet contrast is absolutely irresistible!

No matter how you tweak them, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you're baking for a family gathering or just craving something sweet, Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat worth making again and again.

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