Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

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There’s something comforting about a cookie that tastes like it’s been passed through generations. Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies bring that kind of warmth. Rich in peanut flavor with just the right amount of crispness around the edges and softness in the middle, these cookies are the kind you remember long after the last bite.

This recipe is as much about nostalgia as it is about flavor. With simple pantry staples, it channels Southern charm and heartfelt baking into each batch. Whether you’re sharing them over coffee or sneaking one from the jar, they never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

You’ll fall for this recipe the moment you smell them baking. The dough comes together easily, making it perfect for beginner bakers or seasoned pros looking for a comforting classic. They’re crisp yet tender, with a deep peanut butter taste that doesn’t overwhelm. These cookies freeze well, ship beautifully, and go fast wherever they appear.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

Stick with the creamy, shelf-stable kind like Jif or Skippy for the most consistent results. Natural peanut butters, while delicious, tend to separate and make the dough oily or crumbly. This classic recipe was made for old-fashioned, no-stir peanut butter—just like Grandma used.

Ingredients for the Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies rely on timeless, straightforward ingredients that blend into the perfect bite. There’s no need for anything fancy—just a handful of pantry staples and a good stir.

• Peanut butter – The star of the show. Choose creamy and shelf-stable for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps with the crisp edges.
• Granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and gives the cookies a slightly crisp texture.
• Brown sugar – Adds a deeper caramel note and helps the center stay soft.
• Egg – Binds everything together and adds a little lift.
• All-purpose flour – Gives the cookies their structure.
• Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and spread just the right amount.
• Vanilla extract – Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Salt – Enhances every other flavor.

How To Make the Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Fats and Sugars

Start by beating the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth and fluffy. This step helps introduce air and gives your cookies the right texture.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract. Blend just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly incorporate this into the wet mixture. Don’t overwork the dough—just mix until no dry spots remain.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. Use a fork to gently press a criss-cross pattern into each cookie. Chill the tray in the fridge for about 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly soft. Let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even the simplest cookie recipes can trip you up if you’re not careful. One common mistake is using natural peanut butter. While delicious, it throws off the texture. Also, don’t skip chilling the dough. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading. Overbaking is another misstep—take them out while the centers still look a bit soft for that perfect chew. Lastly, don’t forget to measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling it, not scooping, to avoid dense cookies.

How to Serve and Store These Peanut Butter Cookies

This recipe yields about 24 cookies, making it great for small gatherings, gift boxes, or a cookie jar that actually gets emptied. Serve them with a glass of milk, afternoon tea, or as a midnight treat. They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze both the dough balls and the baked cookies for long-term enjoyment.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

The rich and creamy flavor pairs beautifully with the nutty sweetness of these cookies.

Ice Cream

Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert.

Fresh Fruit

Berries, banana slices, or apple wedges complement the cookies without overwhelming their flavor.

Coffee

A warm, slightly bitter brew balances the cookie’s sweetness perfectly.

Whipped Cream

Dollop some on the side for a quick but luxurious addition.

Milkshake

Blend a couple of these cookies into a milkshake for a nutty twist on a classic.

Yogurt Parfait

Layer cookie crumbs with yogurt and fruit for a crunchy breakfast treat.

Salted Pretzels

That salty crunch adds contrast and brings out the peanut butter even more.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these peanut butter cookies rooted in Southern heritage, you might want to check out more delicious options:

• Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies for a crunchy and chocolatey no-bake option.
• Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies when you want a holiday vibe in every bite.
• Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars for a sweet and creamy take on cookies.
• 3 Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies that are simple and wholesome.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars for the ultimate combo of flavors.

Save This Recipe 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 swap in crunchy peanut butter or add a chocolate drizzle? Maybe you tried a gluten-free flour mix?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a bite of history, comfort, and Southern love. Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always satisfying, this is the kind of cookie that deserves a spot in every baker’s repertoire. Give them a try and taste a little slice of Americana.

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