Description
These classic peanut butter cookies inspired by Jimmy Carter’s grandmother combine simple pantry ingredients to create a chewy, flavorful treat with a signature crisscross fork pattern. Easy to make with only four ingredients and baked to golden perfection, they are perfect for snacks or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean up easier.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until smooth and fully combined to ensure even flavor and texture.
- Form Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop out balls of dough and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Press each ball down gently with a fork, creating a classic crisscross pattern on each cookie.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges look set and begin to turn slightly golden.
- Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy these cookies fresh as a delightful snack or dessert, perfect with a glass of milk or your favorite drink.
Notes
- Use smooth peanut butter for the best texture and consistency in cookies.
- Don’t overbake; cookies will firm up as they cool and you want to keep them chewy.
- Pressing the cookies with a fork before baking prevents cracking and gives the signature peanut butter cookie design.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a gluten-free treat, ensure the sugar and vanilla extract are gluten-free certified.
