Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s something truly nostalgic about the scent of freshly baked peanut butter cookies filling the kitchen. These cookies, inspired by Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, bring a taste of old-fashioned comfort with every bite—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with rich peanut butter flavor.

this Recipe

I first came across this recipe while exploring traditional Southern baking, and it immediately won a permanent spot in my kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples, these cookies come together effortlessly, making them perfect for both everyday treats and special occasions.

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with a cookie recipe that’s stood the test of time. These peanut butter cookies are not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

First, they have the perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. The edges turn golden and slightly crunchy, while the centers remain soft and full of deep, nutty flavor.

They also require simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. No fancy techniques or hard-to-find items—just classic, wholesome baking essentials.

Another reason to love this recipe is its historical charm. Baking these cookies feels like carrying on a sweet tradition from the Carter family kitchen, making them a unique and meaningful treat.

And if you love make-ahead desserts, you’re in luck. The dough can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge, ready to be baked whenever a craving strikes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these peanut butter cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating their signature texture and flavor.

Peanut butter is, of course, the star. A smooth, creamy variety works best for achieving a soft and chewy texture, but if you prefer a little crunch, chunky peanut butter will add delightful bits of peanut throughout.

Butter adds richness and depth. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level, enhancing the flavor without overpowering the sweetness. If you only have salted butter on hand, just reduce the added salt slightly.

Brown sugar and granulated sugar work together to create the perfect texture. Brown sugar keeps the cookies moist and chewy, while granulated sugar helps with crisp edges and a delicate sweetness.

Eggs bind the dough together and contribute to the cookies' structure. Using room-temperature eggs ensures better mixing and a smoother consistency.

Baking soda and baking powder give the cookies their ideal rise and tenderness. Together, they create a soft yet slightly crisp bite that makes these cookies irresistible.

A good mixing bowl and a sturdy wooden spoon or hand mixer are all you need—no special equipment required, making this recipe as approachable as it is delicious.

How To Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Making these peanut butter cookies is as simple as mixing, shaping, and baking. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, and sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the mixture, resulting in a soft and tender cookie.

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create a smooth, cohesive dough that bakes evenly. Stir in the baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, ensuring everything is well distributed.

Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can make the cookies tough instead of tender. If the dough feels too soft, chilling it for 15-20 minutes helps with handling and shaping.

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Use a fork to create the signature crisscross pattern on top, pressing gently to flatten them slightly.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. The cookies will be soft when they first come out of the oven but will firm up as they cool. Let them sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage Options

These peanut butter cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for baking in advance or enjoying over several days.

For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days, maintaining their perfect balance of chewiness and crispness.

If you want to keep them longer, store the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to two weeks—just let them come to room temperature before eating for the best texture.

To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in a low oven for a freshly baked feel.

Variations and Substitutions

This peanut butter cookie recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to get creative with flavors and textures.

For an extra indulgent treat, stir in chocolate chips or chopped chocolate before baking. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser.

If you love texture, try adding chopped peanuts or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet contrast. These additions create a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Want to make these cookies even more Southern? Swap out half of the butter for melted bacon grease for a subtle, smoky depth of flavor—an old-fashioned trick that enhances the richness.

For a twist on sweetness, substitute some of the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. This not only adds a unique flavor but also keeps the cookies extra moist and chewy.

And if you need a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. The cookies may spread a little more, but they’ll still have that irresistible peanut butter flavor.

Experiment with these variations to make the cookies your own—after all, recipes passed down through generations are meant to be adapted and enjoyed.

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