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–+ servings
Peanut Butter Cookies from The Red Cross Nutrition Class
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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 72 cookies
Calories 110 kcal

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 chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for texture.
  • Use crunchy peanut butter for an old-fashioned, hearty bite.
  • For chewier cookies, slightly underbake (about 12 minutes).
  • Freeze the dough in balls for future baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 70mgPotassium: 65mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword 1930s baking, classic, classic recipes, comfort food, cookies, heirloom, homemade, peanut butter, red cross, vintage
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