Description
These classic peanut butter cookies, inspired by Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, are packed with nostalgic charm and rich flavor. With a soft, tender center and crisp edges, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo with a glass of milk. The iconic fork-pressed tops aren’t just decorative—they ensure the cookie bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture and stir until combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place on the baking sheet.
7. Press each dough ball with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added to maintain a soft texture.
For best results, use creamy processed peanut butter (not natural).
You can freeze the cookie dough balls for later baking—no thawing required.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: peanut butter cookies, classic cookies, Southern dessert