These Peanut Butter Cookies, rumored to be a favorite recipe from Jimmy Carter’s grandmother, are delightfully simple yet packed with rich peanut butter flavor. With just four basic ingredients, this timeless recipe is perfect for quick baking sessions, delivering soft, chewy cookies that melt in your mouth. No flour needed—just pure, peanut-buttery goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter: Creamy or chunky—your choice!
• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and a bit of crispness to the edges.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder for the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For a hint of warm, aromatic flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Mix the Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. The dough will be slightly thick and sticky.

3. Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop out tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Use a fork to press the dough balls down, creating a classic crisscross pattern.

4. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just set. The cookies may look slightly underdone in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.

5. Cool and Serve

1. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Enjoy warm, or store for later!

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Optional Add-Ins

• Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup for a chocolatey twist.
• Chopped Peanuts: Add a crunchy texture with 1/4 cup of chopped peanuts.
• Sea Salt Sprinkle: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for a sweet-and-salty treat.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when slightly soft in the center. Watch closely during baking.
2. Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before shaping.
3. Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sugar level if you prefer a less sweet cookie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Just four ingredients and no fancy techniques required.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: No flour, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Rich Peanut Butter Flavor: Pure and unadulterated peanut butter goodness.

These Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that will make any day sweeter. Whether you’re baking with kids, sharing with friends, or enjoying solo, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings! 🥜🍪✨