Grandma Stephens' Peanut Butter Cookies
Delicious peanut butter cookies with a soft, chewy texture and rich flavor, perfect for peanut lovers and sharing with friends or family during any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, soda, and baking powder into a large bowl.
- Cream the margarine and sugars until smooth; then beat in the eggs, peanut butter, and vanilla until well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and knead to form a smooth dough.
- Roll the dough into hickory nut-sized balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet, 1 inch apart.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and place a chocolate star in the middle of each cookie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. To reduce sugar, substitute half the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol or coconut sugar. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter can be used for a better taste. Adding a pinch of sea salt can enhance the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a glass of cold milk or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an indulgent treat, pair with a slice of Raw Applesauce Cake for dessert. They also make a great addition to dessert platters at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore softness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Stephens' Peanut Butter Cookies contains roughly 40 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be mindful that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter tends to be more oily, so you may need to adjust the flour slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
What can I use instead of margarine?
Unsalted butter is a great substitute for margarine, providing a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative will work well. Just ensure that the consistency is similar to that of margarine.
How can I make these cookies chewier?
To achieve a chewier texture, try adding an extra egg yolk or substituting some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar, as it retains moisture. Also, baking them for a minute less can help keep them soft and chewy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).