Lorenzo Devereaux
There’s something deeply nostalgic about a batch of warm, golden peanut butter cookies. These cookies are soft in the center, slightly crisp at the edges, and carry that perfect balance of sweet and salty that makes peanut butter desserts irresistible. What sets this recipe apart is its old-fashioned simplicity — the kind of recipe that feels like it came straight out of a family recipe box.
Jimmy Carter’s grandmother was known for her straightforward, wholesome baking, and these peanut butter cookies are no exception. They’re made with pantry staples, but the flavor is rich and full-bodied, with that classic crisscross fork pattern we all know and love. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe has been cherished for generations.
What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?
For authentic old-fashioned flavor, creamy peanut butter works best, as it gives the cookies a smooth, rich texture. Natural peanut butter can be used, but make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid greasy or crumbly dough. If you want a bit more crunch, swap half the creamy peanut butter with chunky peanut butter for extra texture.
Ingredients for the Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies
- Peanut Butter – The star of the show, giving the cookies their rich, nutty flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps create that soft, tender texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps with those crisp, sugary edges.
- Brown Sugar – Brings depth and a subtle caramel flavor.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the warm, sweet flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the base and structure for the cookies.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay soft.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
How To Make the Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft, tender cookie texture.
Step 2: Add the Peanut Butter and Egg
Mix in the peanut butter and egg, beating until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The peanut butter should fully incorporate with the butter mixture for the best flavor.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Add the vanilla extract, followed by the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want the cookies to stay tender.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork, creating the classic crisscross pattern.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving and Storing Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies
These cookies taste incredible warm, fresh out of the oven, when they’re soft and slightly gooey in the center. Once cooled, they firm up to that perfect chewy texture that pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy again, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds to bring back that just-baked taste.
What to Serve With Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies?
1. Cold Milk
The classic choice—nothing beats the creamy balance milk adds to peanut butter’s richness.
2. Hot Chocolate
A cozy winter treat when you want to double down on comfort.
3. Coffee or Latte
Perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up with just the right amount of sweetness.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream
Turn your cookies into a quick dessert sandwich or crumble them on top.
5. Fresh Berries
The tartness of raspberries or strawberries adds a refreshing contrast.
6. Caramel Sauce Drizzle
For a decadent dessert twist, drizzle warm caramel over a few cookies.
7. Peanut Butter Milkshake
Go all-in on the peanut butter flavor with a thick, creamy milkshake.
8. Chocolate Fondue
Dip these cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent snack platter.
Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?
If you love these peanut butter cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
- The Irresistible Charm of Peanut Butter Candy Corn Cookies
- Twix Cookie Cups
- Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
- Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Brown Sugar Pop-Tart Cookies
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you tweak the sugar level or add chocolate chips? Maybe you tried a drizzle of caramel on top?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.
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Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- hand or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add peanut butter and egg; mix until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract, flour, baking soda, and salt until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Roll dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place on the baking sheet. Flatten gently with a fork, making a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Let cool before serving.