Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the incredible nostalgia that comes with making Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies! These cookies are a delightful reminder of simpler times, filled with warmth and love. I can almost smell the sweet, nutty aroma wafting through the kitchen as they bake, filling the air with comfort. The best part? This recipe is so simple that anyone can whip them up in no time! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create delicious, soft cookies that are perfectly sweet and have that unmistakable peanut butter flavor. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why these cookies have been cherished for generations. They’re not just cookies; they’re a slice of history that brings smiles to faces young and old alike!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup peanut butter – creamy or chunky, whichever you prefer!
- 1 cup sugar – granulated sugar adds the perfect sweetness.
- 1 egg – this helps bind everything together beautifully.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – for that lovely, warm flavor.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – this gives the cookies a nice lift.
- 1/4 tsp salt – just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
How to Prepare Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get those delicious cookies baking! First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s super important to do this first so your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown—trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Next, grab a mixing bowl and combine your peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. I like to use a sturdy wooden spoon or a hand mixer to blend everything until it’s nice and smooth—just a couple of minutes should do the trick!
Now comes the fun part: rolling the dough! Scoop out small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place these little beauties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You’ll want to give them some space because they’ll spread out a bit while baking.
Once you’ve got them all lined up, take a fork and gently press down on each ball, making that classic crisscross pattern. This not only looks adorable but helps them bake evenly too! Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let them bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to be just golden on the edges and soft in the middle.
After baking, let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. And there you have it—simple, warm, and utterly delightful peanut butter cookies that’ll bring a smile to anyone’s face!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness of these delightful cookies! Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re getting with each delicious bite. Each cookie contains approximately:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also pack a bit of protein from the peanut butter, making them a sweet snack that feels a little more wholesome! Enjoy them in moderation, and you’ll be all set to indulge in this classic recipe with a little less guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare – You can whip these up in just about 15 minutes, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute craving!
- Easy ingredients – With just a handful of pantry staples, you don’t have to make a special trip to the store.
- Flavorful and nostalgic – Each bite brings back memories of warm kitchens and family gatherings, just like Grandma used to make.
- Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s a cozy night in, a holiday treat, or a bake sale, these cookies are always a hit!
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, if you want to take these peanut butter cookies to the next level, I’ve got some pro tips just for you! First up, let’s talk texture. If you prefer a softer cookie, don’t overbake them—pull them out when they’re just golden at the edges but still a bit soft in the center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, creating that perfect melt-in-your-mouth consistency!
Now, if you’re a fan of a little crunch, consider adding some chopped peanuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. It adds a delightful contrast to the creamy peanut butter flavor. Speaking of flavors, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can swap out the sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste, or mix in some chocolate chips for a delicious twist. Trust me, chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven!
Another tip: if your peanut butter is on the thicker side, you might want to give it a quick stir or warm it slightly in the microwave to make it easier to mix. This will ensure all your ingredients blend together smoothly. And remember, every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on the cookies as they bake the first time around. You want to find that sweet spot for your perfect batch!
Lastly, if you find yourself with some leftover cookies (which is rare, but hey, it could happen!), store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’re just as delicious a day or two later, and you’ll be glad you saved some for later indulgence!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies! First off, let’s talk about chocolate. Who doesn’t love chocolate? You can easily add in some chocolate chips—about a half cup should do it. Just fold them into the dough before rolling into balls for an extra decadent treat!
Another delightful twist is to experiment with different nut butters. If you’re a fan of almond or cashew butter, go ahead and swap it out for the peanut butter. Each nut butter brings its own unique flavor and creaminess, and they’re all delicious! Just make sure to stick to the same measurements for the best results.
For those who enjoy a little crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture. This not only gives a nice contrast to the soft cookie but also amps up the nutty flavor profile! You could also try mixing in some oats for a chewier texture—just about a cup should work perfectly.
Feeling fruity? Go ahead and add some dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of sweetness and chewiness in every bite. It’s a fun way to brighten up the flavor and add a splash of color to your cookie platter!
Last but not least, think about spices! A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can add a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall baking. Just remember to adjust according to your taste preferences. The beauty of these cookies is their versatility, so let your creativity shine and make them your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve baked up a batch of these delightful peanut butter cookies, let’s talk about keeping them fresh and tasty! To store your cookies, simply place them in an airtight container. I like to layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh for about a week at room temperature, but trust me, they’re usually gone long before then!
If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, just take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. No need to worry about reheating them, as they’re just as delicious enjoyed at room temperature!
However, if you do prefer them warm, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might end up with a melty mess! Either way, whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or a cozy treat from the freezer, these cookies are sure to bring joy anytime!
FAQ Section
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works great, but keep in mind that it can be a bit runnier. Just make sure to stir it well before using, and it should mix into the dough beautifully.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
You’ll want to look for a golden-brown edge while the centers should still look a bit soft. They’ll firm up as they cool on the wire rack, so don’t worry if they seem a little underbaked when you take them out!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you want to prep ahead, just cover the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling into balls.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before freezing.
Can I add other mix-ins to the dough?
Definitely! This recipe is super versatile. Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even nuts for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the total volume to keep the dough balanced!
For more information on the benefits of peanut butter, check out this Healthline article.
For tips on baking cookies, you can refer to this Baking Mad guide.
Print
Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Made Easy
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic recipe for Jimmy Carter’s grandmother’s peanut butter cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- For a softer texture, do not overbake.
- You can add chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: jimmy carter, peanut butter cookies, grandmother's recipe
