Name: Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies That Taste Like Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (unsalted); 1 cup Peanut Butter (traditional varieties like Jif or Skippy); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed); 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Salt

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the aroma of baking cookies fills the air, I can’t help but feel transported back to my childhood kitchen, where every batch of cookies seemed to carry a sprinkle of magic. Today, I’m thrilled to share Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies, a classic recipe that promises to warm your heart and soul with every bite. These easy, homemade delights feature crisp edges and a heavenly soft center—perfect for anyone craving a comforting treat. Whether you enjoy them alongside a cold glass of milk or a cozy cup of coffee, these cookies bring a taste of nostalgia and family tradition straight to your table. And if you’re feeling adventurous, I’ll also share some delightful variations to keep things exciting! Curious about what makes these cookies so special? Let’s dive in!

What Makes These Cookies So Irresistible?

Nostalgic Comfort: Each bite of these cookies transports you back to simpler times, evoking cherished memories of grandma’s kitchen.
Easy Recipe: Even beginner bakers can whip these up effortlessly, making them perfect for a quick, satisfying treat.
Rich Flavor: The blend of peanut butter and sugars creates a deeply satisfying taste that both adults and kids love.
Versatile Variations: Swap ingredients for exciting twists—consider adding chocolate chips for a sweet surprise or using crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a family gathering or a casual get-together, these cookies are sure to delight and impress.
Time-Saving: Quick to prepare and bake, these cookies are ready to enjoy in no time, leaving you with more moments to savor.

Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to create a nostalgic treat!

For the Batter

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted for better control over salt levels.
Peanut Butter – The star ingredient imparting that irresistible nutty flavor; traditional varieties like Jif or Skippy yield the best texture.
Granulated Sugar – Offers sweetness and supports browning for that perfect cookie finish.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and depth of flavor; be sure to pack it for the right consistency.
Egg – Binds everything together nicely, adding moisture to the cookies.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a touch of warmth.

For the Dry Mix

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure; measure accurately to prevent dense cookies.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies to rise beautifully.
Salt – Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing the flavors throughout.

With these Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies ingredients ready, you are all set to embark on a lovely baking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature. This step is crucial for achieving the crisp edges and soft center that make Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies so delightful. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream Butter & Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and your choice of peanut butter. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes smooth and creamy. The goal is to create a rich base that will enhance the nutty flavor in your Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies, providing a delightful texture.

Step 3: Mix Sugars
Next, add both granulated and packed brown sugars to the bowl with the creamed butter and peanut butter. Beat the mixture on medium speed for another 2–3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, leading to the perfect chewy consistency in your peanut butter cookies.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sweetened butter mixture. Beat the ingredients together on low speed until fully incorporated. The egg serves as a binding agent while the vanilla enhances the richness of the flavor, bringing your Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies one step closer to perfection.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, using a spatula or the mixer on low speed. Mix until just combined, ensuring the dough remains tender and avoiding overmixing—this helps keep your cookies soft and enjoyable.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls using your hands. Place them on the prepped parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ball. To create the iconic crisscross pattern, gently press down with a fork, flattening the cookies slightly. This step not only shapes the cookies but also gives them that classic look.

Step 7: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Look for the edges to turn a light golden brown while the centers may appear slightly underdone. This visual cue is key—these cookies will firm up as they cool, ensuring a perfect balance between crisp and chewy in your Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies.

Step 8: Cool
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This cooling period allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack. Once on the rack, let the cookies cool completely before indulging in the comforting flavors that remind you of home.

Expert Tips for Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Measure Carefully: Ensure accurate measurements, especially for flour; too much can lead to dense cookies rather than the soft, chewy centers we desire in Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies.
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels sticky or warm, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes. This prevents excessive spreading during baking, helping maintain that perfect cookie shape.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the delightful softness you want.
Perfect Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies—remove them from the oven when the edges are golden brown. They may look underbaked in the center, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients! Try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture or mix in chocolate chips to create unique flavors without losing the essence of Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies.

What to Serve with Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Nothing complements a warm batch of cookies quite like the perfect side dish.

Cold Milk: A classic pairing, the crispiness of the cookies meets the creamy refreshment of milk, enhancing their rich peanut buttery flavor.
Coffee: The warm, aromatic notes of a freshly brewed cup elevate the cookie experience, creating a comforting afternoon break.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast, perfect for turning those cookies into a delightful dessert sandwich.
Fresh Fruit: Sliced apples or bananas bring a refreshing sweetness, balancing the richness of the cookies while adding a burst of color to your plate.
Chocolate Milkshake: For a truly indulgent treat, combine the nostalgia of cookies with a thick, sweet chocolate shake that kids and adults will love.
Chai Tea: The spiced warmth of chai tea complements the nutty flavors, making for a cozy pairing that’s perfect for cooler evenings.

Each of these delicious options will enrich your experience with Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies, ensuring an inviting moment of bliss in your day!

Make Ahead Options

These Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you want to go even further, scoop the rolled cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies at your convenience, just as delicious as if they were made on the spot. By preparing ahead, you’ll have warm, comforting treats ready in no time!

Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies with your own special twists!

Crunchy Peanut Butter: Swap out creamy for crunchy peanut butter for a delicious texture boost. The added crunch will take you on a delightful journey with each bite!
Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities. The cookies will still be soft and chewy, just like the classic version!
Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. The melted chocolate combines beautifully with the nutty flavor of the peanut butter, creating pure bliss!
Chopped Nuts: Mix in a handful of coarsely chopped peanuts or walnuts for added flavor and crunch. You’ll love the extra dimension these nuts bring to your cookies!
Maple Syrup: For a unique taste twist, replace half of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup. This will offer a pleasant sweetness and a hint of earthiness.
Coffee Flavor: Introduce a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter. This subtle coffee kick pairs wonderfully with the rich peanut butter and makes for an impressive flavor combination.
Cinnamon Hit: Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon to the dry mix for a warm spice flavor. It rounds out the sweetness and creates a comforting aroma while baking.
Dairy-Free: To make these cookies dairy-free, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. They will still remain soft and inviting, perfect for everyone!

Dive into these irresistible variations, and don’t forget to enjoy them with a classic glass of cold milk or perhaps a warm cup of coffee—much like those cherished moments from childhood. If you’re looking for more delightful recipes, check out these Chocolate Chip Cookies for a fun family treat or try this Cajun Honey Butter Salmon for a savory meal twist!

Storage Tips for Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves their delightful softness and rich flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place them in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies.
Reheating: If you’ve stored cookies and want to enjoy them warm, microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften them without losing their texture.

Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peanut butter for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, opt for traditional creamy varieties like Jif or Skippy. These brands provide a consistent consistency that helps achieve that soft, chewy texture. If you prefer a healthier option, natural peanut butter works too but may yield a slightly different texture.

Can I store Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies, and how long will they last?
Very! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best softness and flavor. If you’d like them to last a bit longer, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure the container is well-sealed to avoid drying out.

How do I freeze cookie dough for later use?
Certainly! To freeze Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies dough, scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the balls for a few hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and add a couple of minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

What if my cookies turn out too flat or dense?
No worries! Flat cookies often indicate the dough was too warm or that too much flour was used—accurate measuring is key. If your cookies end up dense, it could be from overmixing; always mix until just combined. For next time, chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can help maintain shape and softness.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re baking for someone with nut allergies, you can experiment with sun butter or soy nut butter as a peanut butter substitute. For gluten-free options, swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend works well, though it may require some testing for texture adjustments.