Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s something special about an old-fashioned peanut butter cookie, especially one with a rich history. This Peanut Butter Cookie recipe comes straight from the grandmother of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, whose family is deeply tied to peanut farming in Georgia. These cookies are soft in the middle, crisp on the edges, and packed with peanut flavor—a true Southern classic.

I first discovered this recipe while exploring the history of peanut farming and Southern baking traditions. After making a batch, I instantly understood why it’s been cherished for generations. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or just enjoy a good homemade cookie, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

This isn’t just any peanut butter cookie—it’s a piece of American history with flavors that stand the test of time.

First, these cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and chewy. The center remains tender, while the edges crisp up beautifully, making every bite pure perfection.

They’re also incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes, making them a great last-minute treat for family and friends.

And let’s not forget the deep peanut flavor. Thanks to a generous amount of peanut butter, every bite is rich, nutty, and slightly salty—just the way a true peanut butter cookie should be.

Finally, this recipe is steeped in tradition. If you love recipes with a story, you’ll appreciate knowing that these cookies are connected to one of America’s most peanut-loving families.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cookies comes from using simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what makes them so special:

Peanut Butter is, of course, the star of the show. Opt for a creamy peanut butter for the classic texture, but if you like extra crunch, a chunky variety works just as well.

Butter adds richness and enhances the flavor. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the salt level, but if you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt slightly.

Brown Sugar is key to keeping these cookies soft and chewy. The molasses in brown sugar adds depth and moisture, making a world of difference in texture.

Flour provides the structure, but make sure to measure it correctly—spoon and level it instead of scooping to avoid dry cookies.

Baking Soda and Baking Powder work together to give the cookies just the right lift and spread. Too much of either, and the texture won’t be quite right.

A fork is the only special tool you need! The signature crisscross pattern on top of peanut butter cookies is made by pressing a fork into the dough before baking.

How To Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Making these cookies is as easy as mixing, scooping, and baking. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure perfect results every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps the cookies bake evenly.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that tender, chewy texture. A hand mixer or stand mixer works best, but a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick too.

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The egg helps bind everything together, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as no streaks of flour remain.

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one.

Use a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern on top of each cookie, slightly flattening the dough. This step not only adds texture but also helps the cookies bake evenly.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. The centers may look slightly underdone, but they’ll firm up as the cookies cool.

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

These peanut butter cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for making ahead or keeping on hand for a sweet treat.

To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a softer cookie, add a slice of bread to the container—it helps retain moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.

Want to freeze the dough instead? Roll the dough into balls, flatten them slightly, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Variations and Substitutions

This peanut butter cookie recipe is delicious as written, but there’s always room for customization.

If you love a little extra crunch, stir in chopped peanuts or mini peanut butter chips for added texture and flavor.

Want to make them extra indulgent? Dip half of each baked cookie in melted chocolate and let them set before serving.

For a healthier twist, try swapping some of the flour for oat flour or using natural peanut butter (just note that the texture may be slightly different).

Need a gluten-free option? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, and they’ll turn out just as tasty.

If you want a touch of warm spice, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough—it enhances the peanut butter flavor beautifully.

With a recipe this timeless, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

This Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies recipe is more than just a treat—it’s a taste of tradition. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just craving a comforting homemade cookie, these will always hit the spot. Let me know if you try them, and happy baking!

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