Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s something truly special about a classic peanut butter cookie, and when it comes with a story, it tastes even sweeter. This recipe comes straight from the family of former President Jimmy Carter, whose roots in peanut farming are well known. These old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are crisp on the edges, soft in the center, and packed with rich, nutty flavor that makes them irresistible.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe while researching Carter’s Georgian heritage, and I was delighted to find that his grandmother had a hand in crafting these delicious treats. Biting into one of these cookies is like taking a step back in time, savoring a family favorite passed down through generations. If you love homemade comfort food, this is a recipe you won’t want to miss.

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with these simple yet indulgent cookies. This recipe is a keeper, whether you’re baking for a nostalgic treat, a family gathering, or just a little something sweet for yourself.

First off, these cookies are incredibly easy to make. With simple pantry staples and no fancy equipment required, you can whip up a batch in no time.

They’re also perfectly balanced—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with peanut butter flavor. Unlike some peanut butter cookies that can be dry, this recipe delivers a soft chew that keeps you coming back for more.

Another reason to love them? They store beautifully. Whether you keep them in an airtight container on the counter or freeze them for later, they maintain their delicious texture and flavor.

And of course, these cookies are steeped in history. If you’re a fan of family recipes with a meaningful backstory, you’ll appreciate every bite of this one.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these peanut butter cookies lies in their simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that signature texture and flavor.

Peanut Butter – The star of the show! Creamy peanut butter works best for that classic smooth texture, but if you prefer a bit of crunch, you can substitute chunky peanut butter for added texture.

Butter – Softened butter adds richness and helps create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Be sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content in the recipe.

Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar – A combination of sugars is key. Brown sugar keeps the cookies chewy and slightly moist, while granulated sugar adds crispness and structure.

Eggs – These provide the structure and moisture needed to hold everything together. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.

Flour & Baking Soda – These dry ingredients create the perfect consistency. Be sure to measure your flour correctly (spoon and level rather than scooping) to avoid a dense cookie.

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

Baking these delicious peanut butter cookies is a simple process that guarantees perfect results every time. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it helps incorporate air into the dough, making for a softer cookie.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern into the tops of each cookie—this classic peanut butter cookie look is a nostalgic touch!

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though they disappear quickly!), these cookies store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this timeless recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Want a little more texture? Use chunky peanut butter or mix in some chopped peanuts for extra crunch.

For a sweeter twist, stir in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven!

Need a gluten-free version? Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

If you love a salty-sweet contrast, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie right before baking. It enhances the peanut flavor and adds an irresistible touch.

These Jimmy Carter-inspired peanut butter cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a piece of history, a nod to Southern tradition, and a delicious way to enjoy a time-honored family recipe. Give them a try, and let the flavors take you back to a simpler time!

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