There's nothing quite like the taste of an old-fashioned peanut butter cookie, especially when it's a recipe passed down through generations. Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect blend of crisp edges, soft centers, and a deep, roasted peanut flavor. These cookies bring a bit of history to your kitchen, connecting you to the Carter family’s Southern roots with every delicious bite.

I first stumbled upon this recipe while researching classic Southern desserts. As soon as I read about it, I knew I had to give it a try. One bite, and I was hooked—the rich, nutty aroma and slightly chewy texture make these cookies utterly irresistible. Plus, they come together quickly with pantry staples, making them an easy go-to treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

These cookies aren’t just any peanut butter cookies—they have a story behind them, a legacy of Southern hospitality and home-baked goodness.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have a batch of warm, homemade cookies in no time. Perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers looking for a foolproof recipe.

The flavor is unparalleled. Thanks to a generous amount of peanut butter, these cookies have a rich, deep peanut flavor that’s balanced by just the right amount of sweetness.

They have the perfect texture. Crispy on the outside, soft and slightly chewy in the center—these cookies offer a delightful contrast in every bite.

And lastly, they’re a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a bake sale, family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these cookies disappear fast. Pair them with a cold glass of milk, and you’ve got a nostalgic treat that everyone will love.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect cookie.

Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Use a classic, creamy peanut butter for the best results. Natural peanut butter can be used, but be sure to stir it well, as the oil separation may affect the texture.

Butter: This adds richness and enhances the peanut flavor. Make sure to use unsalted butter and let it soften to room temperature for easy mixing.

Sugar: A combination of white and brown sugar gives these cookies their signature texture—crisp on the edges and chewy in the middle. Brown sugar also adds a hint of caramel-like depth.

Eggs: They provide structure and help bind all the ingredients together. Room-temperature eggs work best for even mixing.

Flour & Baking Powder: These dry ingredients create the right balance of chewiness and structure. Be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a mixing bowl, a hand or stand mixer, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

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

Making these peanut butter cookies is a simple and rewarding process. Let’s walk through the steps to achieve that perfect batch.

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

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and both sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for aerating the mixture and creating a soft, tender texture.

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps create a smooth, uniform dough.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder, then gradually add them to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—overmixing can make the cookies too dense.

Roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern on top, gently pressing down each cookie.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—these cookies can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly! Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Options

These cookies store beautifully, so you can enjoy them over several days.

At room temperature, keep them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps maintain their chewiness.

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

If you prefer to freeze the dough, shape it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, simply place them on a cookie sheet and bake as directed, adding an extra minute or two.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun variations you can try:

For a chunky version, stir in a handful of chopped peanuts for extra crunch and texture.

Want to make them extra indulgent? Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious.

Prefer a sweeter twist? Use honey-roasted peanut butter for a subtle, caramelized flavor.

For a fun holiday twist, roll the cookie dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a sparkly, festive look.

No matter how you customize them, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So grab a glass of milk, take a bite, and enjoy a taste of history with Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies!