Peanut Butter Cookies are a beloved American classic, widely popularized in the early 20th century and often associated with home-style baking and family kitchens. Originating during the Great Depression, these cookies became a staple due to their use of affordable and shelf-stable ingredients like peanut butter and shortening. This particular recipe, attributed to a Red Cross Nutrition Class, reflects the post-war emphasis on practical, nutritious home cooking. The unique fork-pressed tops give these cookies their signature look and texture, crispy edges with a soft, chewy center.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter (or shortening)
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp vanilla
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (firmly packed )
- 1 egg (well beaten)
- 1 cup flour (sifted )
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup dry skim milk
- 3 tbsp water ( or fluid milk, if needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Blend fat, peanut butter, salt, and vanilla.
- Gradually add granulated and brown sugar, creaming thoroughly.
- Add the well-beaten egg and mix well.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Sift flour, soda, and milk powder together three times.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
- Stir the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Add liquid (water or milk) only if the dough crumbles and is difficult to handle.
Step 4: Shape Cookies
- Roll dough into ¾ to 1-inch balls.
- Place on lightly greased baking sheet, spaced apart to allow for spreading.
- Press each with a fork to flatten and create a crisscross pattern.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in a moderate oven (325°F to 350°F) for about 15 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.
Tips
- Substitute butter for shortening for a richer flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt or chocolate chips for a modern twist.
- Chill dough before rolling for easier handling.
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour.
Nutrition
Calories: 38kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gTrans Fat: 0.004gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 36mgPotassium: 30mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 22IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 19mgIron: 0.2mg
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