Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies

Let’s face it: who doesn’t love a warm, gooey peanut butter cookie? Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies have a way of wrapping you up in nostalgia and comfort. These delightful cookies are not just a treat; they hold a special place in the hearts of many Americans, reminiscent of family gatherings and sweet moments shared. Today, I’m excited to share with you my take on this classic recipe, ensuring that every bite is just as memorable as the last.

The story of Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies goes beyond mere ingredients; it’s woven into American culture. Inspired by the former president’s love for this simple dessert, many fond memories have been created in kitchens across the country. These cookies symbolize a time when simple pleasures brought families together. The use of pantry staples makes them approachable, and the irresistible flavor makes them a favorite in my household. So, why not whip up a batch and create your own cherished memories?

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – you can swap it for crunchy if you prefer texture
• 1 cup granulated sugar – brown sugar can add a different depth of flavor
• 1 large egg – for a vegan option, you can use ground flaxseed mixed with water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that lovely golden color.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar. Mix until it’s smooth and all those lovely flavors meld together. Trust me, this is where the magic begins.

Step 3:

Add in the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The dough will be thick and deliciously sticky.

Step 4:

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie; they need a little room to spread.

Step 5:

Using a fork, gently press down each ball to create a crisscross pattern. This isn’t just for looks; it also helps the cookies bake evenly.

Step 6:

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Nutritional Information

One serving of these delightful cookies (assuming you get 12 cookies from the batch) contains approximately:

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 3g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use.

Healthier Alternatives

If you are looking to lighten up this recipe a bit, consider using natural peanut butter without added sugar or using a sugar substitute like coconut sugar. For those who are gluten-free, you can substitute the regular granulated sugar with a sweetener like erythritol and enjoy these cookies without the guilt.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delicious on their own, but if you want to elevate them, try pairing them with a glass of cold milk or crumbling them over some vanilla ice cream for a tasty dessert. You could even turn these into a fun treat for kids by using them to create sandwich cookies filled with your favorite jam or frosting.

Common Mistakes

When making Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. First, don’t skip the chilling step; if the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 15 minutes. This will make it much easier to handle. Also, be careful not to overbake; these cookies should be soft in the middle for that perfect chewy texture.

Chef’s Notes

• For a delightful twist, try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough.
• They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, but I promise they won’t last that long.
• If you can’t get enough of peanut butter, check out my Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe or the indulgent Peanut Butter Brownie Pizza Recipe.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I freeze these cookies?
  A1: Absolutely; These cookies freeze well. Just place them in an airtight container, and they can be stored for up to three months.
• Q2: Are these cookies gluten-free?
  A2: If you use gluten-free sugar and check your peanut butter label, these can be gluten-free.
• Q3: Can I make these cookies vegan?
  A3: Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mix or a banana for a delicious vegan alternative.

Whether you plan to bake these Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies for a special occasion or just for a quiet night in, I hope you enjoy every moment in your kitchen. Each cookie is a delicious reminder of the comforts of home and the joy of sharing sweet treats. Happy baking!

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