Manon’s Peanut Butter Cookies reflect a classic mid-century American baking tradition, where simple pantry staples came together to create deeply satisfying treats. Peanut butter cookies became especially popular in the early 20th century as peanut butter grew more accessible and affordable. This handwritten version highlights a straightforward approach, brown sugar for richness, shortening for tenderness, and a touch of vanilla for warmth. The result is a soft yet slightly crisp cookie with a nutty depth and nostalgic flavor. Recipes like this capture the practicality and creativity of home cooks who relied on what they had, producing desserts that remain timeless and comforting today.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- ⅔ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup shortening
- ½ cup hot water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, peanut butter, and shortening.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add Liquids
- Stir in hot water gradually.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Add baking soda and salt.
- Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Form Cookies
- Scoop small portions of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly with a fork or spoon.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow cookies to cool on a rack before serving.
Tips
- Add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist
- Use crunchy peanut butter for texture
- Chill dough for thicker cookies
- Sprinkle sugar on top before baking
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth
- Substitute butter for shortening for richer flavor
- Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies
- Make sandwich cookies with filling
- Add chopped peanuts for extra crunch
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 90mgPotassium: 75mgFiber: 1gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg
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