Indulge in the classic flavors of these nostalgic treats that harken back to Jimmy Carter’s childhood. These Peanut Butter Cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face and satisfy your sweet tooth.
**Ingredients:**
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg until well blended.
4. Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; stir into the peanut butter mixture until well mixed.
5. Shape into 1-inch balls and place on ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball with a fork, making a crisscross pattern.
6. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven until light brown. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Serving size: 1 cookie
– Calories per serving: 120
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Cholesterol: 15mg
– Sodium: 105mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 12g
– Protein: 3g
**Popular questions:**
1. Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
– Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
– Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may produce a denser cookie.
3. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
– Yes, almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter.
4. Can I omit the white sugar and only use brown sugar?
– The cookies may be less sweet and have a slightly different texture, but you can try it.
5. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
– Chocolate chips can be added for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
6. Can I refrigerate the dough before baking?
– Chilling the dough can help prevent spreading while baking.
7. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
– Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.
8. Can I substitute margarine for butter?
– Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but the flavor may differ slightly.
9. Can I use a cookie scoop instead of shaping the dough into balls by hand?
– Yes, a cookie scoop can be used for uniform cookie sizes.
10. Can I drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cookies?
– Drizzling melted chocolate on top adds a delicious finishing touch to the cookies.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture.
2. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
3. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.
4. Do not overbake the cookies to keep them soft and chewy.
5. Experiment with adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
6. Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
7. Use a silicone baking mat for easy clean-up.
8. Try using cookie cutters for fun shapes.
9. Serve cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
10. Double the recipe and freeze half of the dough for later use.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Cream the butter and sugars well for a light and fluffy texture.
2. Combine dry ingredients separately before adding to wet ingredients for even distribution.
3. Use a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern for a traditional look.
4. Bake cookies on parchment paper for easy removal.
5. Rotate the cookie sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
6. Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to prevent breaking.
7. Use a cookie press for perfectly shaped cookies.
8. Dust cookies with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
9. Customize cookies with add-ins like raisins, shredded coconut, or marshmallows.
10. Enjoy warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
In summary, Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a delicious and timeless treat that can be enjoyed by all. Follow the simple recipe and tips for perfect results every time.