There's something truly special about a classic peanut butter cookie, and when it's tied to a piece of history, it becomes even more meaningful. Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a taste of Southern tradition, filled with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter and a touch of old-fashioned charm.

I first came across this recipe while reading about the Carter family's deep roots in Georgia and their love of peanuts. Given that Jimmy Carter himself was a peanut farmer before becoming the 39th president of the United States, it’s no surprise that his grandmother’s cookies have become legendary. These cookies are perfectly soft, chewy, and packed with peanut flavor, making them a staple for any peanut butter lover.

Why You'll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with a cookie that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor. Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are everything you want in a nostalgic, homemade treat.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques are required.

They’re also bursting with peanut butter flavor. Unlike some peanut butter cookies that are too dry or crumbly, these have the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, with a soft, chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s a true Southern classic. If you appreciate family recipes that have been passed down through generations, this one is a must-try.

Finally, these cookies are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these cookies bring people together with their timeless taste.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cookies comes from their simple yet well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect peanut butter cookie texture and flavor.

Peanut Butter – The star of the show! Opt for creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture, but if you like a little crunch, chunky peanut butter works just as well. Avoid natural peanut butter, as the oil separation can affect the dough’s consistency.

Butter – Using real, unsalted butter gives these cookies their rich, buttery taste. Make sure it's softened before mixing to ensure a smooth batter.

Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar – A combination of these two sugars creates the perfect balance of sweetness while also keeping the cookies soft and chewy.

Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding moisture. Room-temperature eggs help create a more even dough.

Flour, Baking Soda, and Baking Powder – The dry ingredients provide structure and the right amount of lift. Be sure to measure the flour correctly—too much can lead to dense cookies.

Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth to the cookies.

How To Make These Peanut Butter Cookies

Making Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies is as easy as can be. Follow these steps for soft, chewy perfection.

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

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving that perfect texture, so don’t rush it—mix for at least 2-3 minutes.

Next, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. This is where the dough starts to come together beautifully.

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

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. For that classic peanut butter cookie look, use a fork to press a crisscross pattern into the top of each cookie.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underdone, but they will firm up as the cookies cool. Let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

Once baked, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They stay soft and delicious, making them perfect for grabbing as a quick snack.

If you’d like to keep them fresh for longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

For long-term storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for that just-baked feel.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to change it up:

For a crunchy twist, mix in chopped peanuts or use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.

Want to add some chocolatey goodness? Stir in chocolate chips or dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent touch.

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The results are just as soft and delicious.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can swap out some of the sugar for honey or maple syrup. Just note that this will slightly change the texture.

For a festive touch, roll the cookie dough balls in sugar or cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra bit of sweetness and crunch.

No matter how you make them, these Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are sure to be a hit. Give them a try and enjoy a taste of history with every bite!