Farmhouse Kitchen, March 2024
March is National Peanut Month, so of course, I feel this month was made just for me. Ever since I was a boy, the cooks in my family have known the way to my heart is anything that features peanut butter on the ingredient list. I’m sharing a couple classic peanut butter recipes and one soon-to-be classic with you. My hope is you’ll make all three sometime soon.
Peanut Butter Chess Pie combines a gooey, decadent classic pie recipe with sweet-and-savory peanut butter for an easy dessert that is sure to be an instant hit. I generally use a store-bought, roll-out pie crust, but you can certainly make your own. If you’re a big chess pie fan like me, this one will be love at first bite.
Peanut Butter Balls are sort of the Alabama version of a buckeye. They are similar in taste but vary in appearance and, sometimes, ingredients. While purists may disagree, I like to add graham cracker crumbs for a slight crunch without taking away from the flavor everyone looks forward to. Plus, those added crumbs give this a taste and texture much like my favorite little peanut butter cups (you know them — and their orange and brown wrapper — well!). These freeze well, so it never hurts to make a double batch. They are great to keep in the fridge for quick lunchbox treats.
We have a delicious treat to round out our recipes this National Peanut Month. Alabama Farmers Federation family member Felicia Dewberry of Clay County is sharing her delicious Salted Peanut Chews. This old-fashioned treat took me back to childhood days in Grandma’s kitchen, and I bet it will bring back cherished memories for you, too. If not, it will surely help you make new ones. Felicia’s peanut-packed recipe placed in the 2011 Heritage Cooking Contest and was originally featured in that year’s October Neighbors.
Spring is on its way, and we couldn’t be happier to see it coming. The Littles are wishing you all sunny skies, green fields and love of family and friends.
Until next time,
Stacey