Introduction
Step back in time with a recipe cherished by the family of President Jimmy Carter. His grandmother’s peanut butter cookies are a blend of nostalgia and simplicity, embodying a rich, buttery peanut flavor with a soft, chewy texture. These cookies have been a beloved tradition, offering comfort and joy for generations. Whether you’re a history buff or simply a cookie enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: A pinch of salt for balance
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth and cohesive dough.
Step 3:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4:
Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern onto each cookie. This flattens them slightly and adds the classic peanut butter cookie design.
Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for a decadent touch.
- Crunchy Additions: Fold in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips to the dough for added texture.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use natural peanut butter and replace the sugar with coconut sugar for a gluten-free treat.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure your peanut butter is well-mixed if using a natural variety to prevent oil separation.
- The cookies will appear soft when removed from the oven but will firm up as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic pairing.
- Create ice cream sandwiches by layering your favorite ice cream between two cookies.
Tips
- For a sweeter variation, sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar on top of the cookies before baking.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it’s too sticky to handle.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
FAQs
1. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Chunky peanut butter adds a delightful texture with peanut bits in every bite.
2. How do I make these cookies sugar-free?
You can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely. Shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
4. Are these cookies suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Yes, as this recipe contains no flour, it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies offer a timeless treat that’s simple to prepare and rich in flavor. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies bring history and comfort to your table. Try them today and savor the warm, peanut-buttery goodness of this cherished family recipe.
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Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies: Classic Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: A pinch of salt for balance
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth and cohesive dough.
Step 3:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4:
Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern onto each cookie. This flattens them slightly and adds the classic peanut butter cookie design.
Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Make sure your peanut butter is well-mixed if using a natural variety to prevent oil separation.
- The cookies will appear soft when removed from the oven but will firm up as they cool.