If you’re looking for a nostalgic treat that’s as simple as it is delicious, you absolutely have to try Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. This charming recipe captures a rich, old-fashioned flavor rooted in tradition, combining just a handful of pantry staples to create a soft, chewy cookie with that irresistible peanut butter punch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—no flour, no fuss, just pure, comforting goodness in every bite, perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a sweet moment to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is delightfully uncomplicated, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor balance. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before baking:
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): This adds the signature peanut flavor and creamy texture, choose crunchy for added nuttiness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies while helping create a tender crumb and slight crisp on the edges.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and gives the cookies structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the richness with a warm, aromatic note.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
How to Make Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, resulting in a dough that’s ready to take shape. The aroma at this stage is already tempting!
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll each into a ball. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet roughly 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Then, using a fork, gently press each ball down, creating a classic crisscross pattern that is iconic to peanut butter cookies.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely so the edges just start to turn a lovely golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy inside.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies sit on the sheet for 5 minutes to set up. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process helps them firm up just enough to hold together while maintaining their melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Serve Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra charm, try sprinkling a tiny pinch of sea salt on top before baking, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Alternatively, drizzle melted chocolate or add a few chocolate chips on top right after baking to elevate the indulgence.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee or tea. They also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet decadent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Package these cookies in a rustic tin or wrap them in parchment paper tied with twine for an adorable gift. You can also sandwich two cookies with a dollop of chocolate or peanut butter frosting for a treat that feels special and nostalgic all at once.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about one week, maintaining their tender texture and rich flavor throughout.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either baked or unbaked. For baked cookies, place them in a sealed freezer bag or container and freeze up to two months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy. For unbaked dough balls, freeze them on a tray first then transfer to an airtight container; bake directly from frozen adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Warm your cookies for just 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave to bring back that freshly baked softness. Alternatively, a few minutes in a low oven refreshed their texture nicely without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter for Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds delightful texture with little peanut bits throughout the cookie, making each bite more interesting and nutty.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour at all, making it perfect for those avoiding gluten.
Can I substitute the egg?
If you need an egg alternative, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) but note the texture might be slightly different.
How should I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid placing them in the fridge as that can cause them to dry out faster.
Is this recipe suitable for kids to make?
Definitely! With just five ingredients and simple steps, it’s a fun and safe baking project to do with children under supervision.
Final Thoughts
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is a timeless treasure that brings warmth and a touch of Southern heritage to your kitchen. Its simplicity and soulful flavor will make it a fast favorite to bake again and again. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—grab your peanut butter, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the magic of homemade cookies that echo a loving family tradition.
Print
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple, classic treat made with just a few ingredients. These flourless, gluten-free cookies combine creamy or crunchy peanut butter with sugar and a hint of vanilla, resulting in a soft, chewy texture with a delightful peanut flavor. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, this vintage recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for those seeking a naturally gluten-free option.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and completely blended.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls using your hands. Place each dough ball onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Flatten Dough: Using a fork, gently press down on each ball of dough in a crisscross pattern to flatten and create a classic cookie texture.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies just begin to turn golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on it for 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to firm up before serving.
Notes
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free, made without any flour.
- For added texture, use crunchy peanut butter or mix in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips.
- Ensure not to overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
