Cowboy Cookies
Welcome to the World of Cowboy Cookies!
You don’t have to be a cowboy or cowgirl to fall in love with these delicious cookies. I’m neither, yet these cookies have captured my heart with their hearty texture and irresistible flavor. It’s a mystery why they’re called Cowboy Cookies, but perhaps it’s because they’re so satisfying that, after eating them, you’ll feel ready to tackle any ranch work that comes your way.
Over the years, I’ve come across numerous versions of Cowboy Cookies, including the famous recipe by Laura Bush. I’ve blended various inspirations to create this unique version. Imagine an Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, enhanced with shredded coconut, reminiscent of Soft and Chewy Seven Layer Magic Bar Cookies. The combination of chewy oats, sweet coconut, and rich chocolate is simply divine.
Adding pecans and Cornflakes brings in a satisfying crunch, similar to the legendary Cornflake Chocolate Chip Cookies by Christina Tosi. The pecans offer a firmer bite, while the Cornflakes deliver a lighter, crispier crunch. Together, they harmonize beautifully with the chewy oats and coconut.
These cookies are sometimes called Kitchen Sink Cookies, and for good reason. Almost everything but the kitchen sink is included! Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand—walnuts for pecans, raisins for chocolate chips, or Special K instead of Cornflakes. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Texture Galore: Enjoy a delightful mix of chewy and crunchy in every bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or pantry supplies.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: A cookie that’s as hearty as it is delicious.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 2 cups flour
- 2 cups oatmeal
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- Walnuts to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar until smooth.
- Add 2 eggs to the mixture and blend well.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder.
- Gradually mix in 2 cups of flour and 2 cups of oatmeal until fully combined.
- Fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips and walnuts to taste.
- Drop large spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you’ve added the flour and oats—mix just until combined.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before moving them to a cooling rack.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding shredded coconut for extra flavor and chewiness.
- Use different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a unique twist.
- Incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for added sweetness.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
How should I store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.
Conclusion
These Cowboy Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. I invite you to give them a try and experience their wonderful textures and flavors for yourself. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us in the comments below or on social media. Enjoy every delicious bite!
