My aunts, Katharyn Noble and Vorita Isaacs, didn’t have any children of their own so all their niece’s and nephews became their children. They loved us dearly and we became who we are as a result of their love. They were safe to talk to when we needed guidance and fun to be around! This is my Aunt Kakie’s recipe for peanut butter cookies. She always had tasty treats when we visited.

Kakie’s Peanut Butter Cookies

¼ cup shortening
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup smooth peanut butter
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar
1 egg
1¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
½ teaspoon baking powder
¾ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon Iodized salt
Parchment paper

Preheat oven to 375ºF. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Mix shortening, butter, peanut butter and both sugars with a mixer on medium speed 4 minutes until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time mixing briefly after each addition. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt together. Reduce speed to low and add flour mixture gradually. Scrape sides of bowl and mix again.

Cover dough and refrigerate 3 hours until cold. Portion dough with a 1½ tablespoon scoop. Roll into balls and place 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Press top of ball with fork tines in a crisscross pattern. Bake 8-10 minutes. Makes 20-22 cookies.

Published in The News and Neighbor on April 19, 2017