Cowboy cookies are a hearty type of cookie loaded with a variety of delicious ingredients such as oats, chocolate chips, coconut, pecans, and sometimes raisins. They’re known for their chewy texture and rich flavor. They’re called “cowboy” cookies because they’re supposedly rugged enough for a cowboy’s saddlebag – they were designed to be satisfying and durable, perfect for a long day on the ranch or trail.
Here’s a classic recipe for making cowboy cookies:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light-brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix together: Gradually beat the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
- Add oats and mix-ins: With a wooden spoon or spatula, stir in the oats, chocolate chips, pecans, coconut, and raisins (if using).
- Scoop the cookies: Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets. You can use a cookie scoop to make this easier and to ensure the cookies are uniformly sized.
- Bake: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. The cookies should still be soft in the center.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Enjoy your cowboy cookies with a cold glass of milk or your favorite warm beverage! These cookies are great for sharing, and they store well in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for long-term storage if you want to keep them fresh for an extended period.