The Best Cowboy Cookies Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Cookies are the ultimate hearty treat, packed with oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans. They’re chewy, crunchy, sweet, and satisfying all in one bite. Perfect for bake sales, lunchbox treats, or when you need a cookie that can handle some serious snacking. These cookies are easy to make and sure to be a family favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Old-fashioned oats
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the Goodies: Stir in the oats, coconut, chocolate chips, and chopped pecans.
7. Shape the Cookies: Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft.
9. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 36 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: About 30 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
• Dried Fruit: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for extra chewiness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle, spicy surprise.
• Different Chips: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Why are they called Cowboy Cookies?

The name likely comes from their hearty, energy-packed ingredients, making them perfect for long days on the trail.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.

How do I keep the cookies chewy?

Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly less chewy.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?

Toast chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but reducing sugar may affect the texture and spread of the cookies.

Are these cookies suitable for mailing?

Yes, they hold up well during shipping. Pack them tightly to prevent breakage.

What can I substitute for coconut?

If you don’t like coconut, simply leave it out or replace it with more oats or chopped nuts.

Conclusion

These Cowboy Cookies are loaded with flavor and texture, making them a standout in any cookie jar. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, their sweet, nutty, and chewy goodness is sure to satisfy. Customize them with your favorite add-ins and enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy and chewy in every bite.

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