There’s something special about a classic peanut butter cookie, but when it’s a recipe passed down from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, you know it has a legacy of warmth and tradition. These cookies are rich, nutty, and perfectly crisp on the outside while staying deliciously chewy in the center. If you love old-fashioned, no-fuss baking, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

I first discovered this recipe while reading about Jimmy Carter’s deep connection to peanuts, given his family’s farming background. Curiosity led me to try it out, and after just one bite, I was hooked. The balance of sweetness and peanut flavor is just right, making it a nostalgic treat that feels like a comforting hug.

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

Get ready to enjoy a peanut butter cookie that’s steeped in history and full of homemade goodness.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With simple pantry staples and no complicated steps, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.

They have the perfect texture. The edges crisp up beautifully while the centers stay soft and chewy, making every bite irresistible.

This recipe is budget-friendly. It doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, so you can make delicious cookies without breaking the bank.

And, of course, the peanut flavor shines. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk or on their own, these cookies are bursting with rich, nutty goodness.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that classic texture and taste.

Peanut butter is the star of the show. Opt for a traditional creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for the best results. Natural peanut butter can be used, but be aware that it may change the texture slightly.

Butter gives these cookies a rich, buttery depth that pairs beautifully with the peanut flavor. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

Sugar brings the perfect amount of sweetness. This recipe uses both granulated and brown sugar—the granulated sugar helps with crisp edges, while the brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness.

Eggs provide structure and help bind everything together. Use fresh, large eggs for the best results.

A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, rounding out the sweetness and nutty notes with a warm, comforting depth.

How To Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Making these cookies is a simple and rewarding process that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of peanut butter and warm sugar.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is key to getting the perfect texture.

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie, creating the signature crisscross pattern.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The result is a batch of beautifully golden, aromatic peanut butter cookies that are simply irresistible.

Storage Options

These cookies store wonderfully, making them perfect for enjoying over several days or even weeks.

For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days.

If you’d like to extend their shelf life, store them in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their chewiness and prevents them from drying out too quickly.

For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Simply let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their soft, freshly baked texture.

Variations and Substitutions

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

For a crunchy twist, use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy. This adds bits of peanut throughout the cookie, giving them extra texture.

If you love chocolate, stir in a handful of chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an indulgent treat.

For a healthier version, swap out half of the sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture.

Want a gluten-free option? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. These cookies hold up well with the substitution.

Experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost. However you customize them, these peanut butter cookies will always be a comforting, nostalgic delight.