Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about the scent of peanut butter cookies baking in the oven. The nutty aroma fills the kitchen, bringing with it a sense of nostalgia and home. This classic recipe for peanut butter cookies comes straight from the Carter family, a treasured tradition passed down from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother. These cookies are simple, buttery, and packed with rich peanut flavor—just the way a timeless cookie should be.

I first stumbled upon this recipe while researching Southern baking traditions. Given President Carter’s lifelong connection to peanut farming, it was no surprise that his family had perfected a peanut butter cookie recipe. One bite, and I was hooked—soft in the middle, slightly crisp on the edges, and utterly irresistible.

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

Get ready to meet your new favorite cookie! This recipe has stood the test of time for good reason.

First, these cookies are incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time. No fancy equipment or complicated steps required.

They’re also perfectly balanced in texture. The edges turn golden and crisp, while the center stays soft and chewy—a peanut butter lover’s dream.

Another reason to love them? They’re rich, buttery, and packed with peanut flavor. If you're a fan of classic peanut butter cookies, this recipe is sure to become a go-to.

Lastly, they have a special touch of history. Baking these cookies feels like taking a bite of tradition, connecting with the past through a simple, delicious treat.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of these peanut butter cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect bite.

Peanut Butter is the star of the show. Opt for creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture, but if you like a little crunch, chunky peanut butter works too. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it can affect the consistency.

Butter adds richness and depth to the cookies. Use unsalted butter to control the salt levels and ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar create the ideal texture. The brown sugar keeps the cookies soft and chewy, while the granulated sugar adds just the right amount of crispness to the edges.

Eggs help bind the dough together and give the cookies structure. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for best results.

Flour and Baking Soda provide the foundation. All-purpose flour works perfectly here, and baking soda gives the cookies a little lift while they bake.

No special equipment is needed—just a mixing bowl, a wooden spoon, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

How To Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Baking these cookies is as simple as it gets, and the process fills your home with the most irresistible scent.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter, and sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it helps create the signature soft and chewy texture.

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie, creating the signature crisscross pattern.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. The centers may look slightly underdone, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Options

These peanut butter cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for baking ahead.

To keep them fresh, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you love soft cookies, add a slice of bread to the container—it helps maintain moisture!

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few fun ways to change things up:

Love a little extra crunch? Add chopped peanuts to the dough for an even nuttier bite.

For a sweet and salty twist, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the cookies right before baking. It enhances the peanut butter flavor beautifully.

Want to make them extra indulgent? Mix in chocolate chips for a peanut butter-chocolate combo that’s absolutely irresistible.

If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap in gluten-free all-purpose flour. The texture stays just as soft and delicious.

No matter how you tweak them, these cookies are bound to become a household favorite. Bake a batch, pour yourself a glass of milk, and enjoy a taste of history.

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