Name: Cowboy Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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There’s something extra-special about baking a batch of Cowboy Cookies. This classic treat weaves together chewy oats, rich chocolate chips, toasted coconut, and (if you please) crunchy nuts for a cookie that somehow captures the wild spirit of the west in every bite. Whenever you crave something satisfyingly hearty and decadent, these cookies deliver big time with layers of flavor and texture that are as nostalgic as they are scrumptious. Picture this: a golden, chewy cookie with crisp edges and a sweet, buttery aroma you simply won’t be able to resist—let’s get baking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Cowboy Cookies looks simple, yet each element brings something magical to the table. From creaminess and chew to sweetness and crunch, every addition is essential to mastering these irresistible cookies.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Essential for that rich, tender cookie crumb and classic cookie flavor—softened to blend creamy-smooth.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps the cookies bake up with slightly crisp edges.
Packed brown sugar (1 cup): Brings moisture and a wonderful hint of caramel thanks to the molasses content.
Large eggs (2): Bind the dough for structure and contribute to that chewy texture.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Adds unmistakable warmth and depth to every bite.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The backbone of the cookie, creating just the right body and bite.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Key for lift—ensures your cookies don’t bake up flat!
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives extra little puff and tenderness.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances all the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
Old-fashioned oats (2 cups): The heart of Cowboy Cookies; they deliver hearty chew and rustic charm.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups): Chocolate pockets that melt perfectly throughout the cookies.
Shredded sweetened coconut (1 cup): Brings tropical sweetness and chewy texture—so iconic!
Chopped pecans or walnuts (1 cup, optional): For those who crave a nutty crunch (entirely up to your taste buds).

How to Make Cowboy Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even, reliable bake. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier than ever—a little detail that makes all the difference when you’re ready to pull those golden Cowboy Cookies out of the oven.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this incorporates air for a slightly chewy texture and makes the cookies delightfully tender. Really give it a good mix for the best cookie experience.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, beat in the eggs so they’re fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract. This step infuses the dough with richness and helps your Cowboy Cookies turn out irresistibly soft, flavorful, and aromatic.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients team up to give your cookies their structure and just the right amount of rise. Gradually add this mix to your wet ingredients, stirring until just combined—don’t overmix to ensure tender cookies!

Step 5: Fold in Oats, Chocolate, Coconut, and Nuts

Gently mix in the old-fashioned oats, semi-sweet chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts if you’re including them. Every addition at this point turns a good cookie dough into Cowboy Cookies with personality—chunky, loaded, and downright drool-worthy.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon, drop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Pop them into your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes—bake until the edges are just golden and the centers are set. Slightly underbake for extra-chewy centers. Let them cool on the pan for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

How to Serve Cowboy Cookies

Garnishes

The finishing touch? Just before serving, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the chocolate, or drizzle with a little melted chocolate for a bakery-style look. A dusting of extra coconut flakes is fun for a hint of texture and color.

Side Dishes

Serve Cowboy Cookies with an ice-cold glass of milk, your favorite cup of coffee, or even alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These heartier cookies also pair perfectly with a bowl of fresh berries for a pop of freshness that balances out the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, pile Cowboy Cookies high on a rustic wooden tray or stack and wrap them in parchment for sweet lunchbox surprises. Try tucking a few into cellophane bags tied with twine for an irresistible homemade gift that’ll bring smiles every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cowboy Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them extra soft, add a slice of bread to the container—it’ll keep them from drying out and maintain that delightful chewiness.

Freezing

Cowboy Cookies freeze beautifully! Simply let them cool completely, then layer them with parchment in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough in scoops—just bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Reheating

If your cookies lose that fresh-baked warmth, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 3–5 minutes. They’ll emerge soft in the center with that unbeatable crispy edge. For a quick fix, a few seconds in the microwave will bring them back to life, but watch out—they’ll be gone in a flash!

FAQs

Can I make Cowboy Cookies nut-free?

Absolutely! Just leave out the pecans or walnuts for a delightful nut-free version—these Cowboy Cookies are just as scrumptious and hearty without them.

What can I use instead of coconut?

If coconut isn’t your thing, you can swap in extra oats or even try dried fruit for a chewy, delicious twist that keeps with the Cowboy Cookies spirit.

How do I get extra chewy cookies?

For extra-chewy Cowboy Cookies, pull them from the oven when the centers still look a teeny bit underdone. Let them finish setting on the baking sheet, and they’ll be soft and fabulous.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Cowboy Cookies dough keeps well in the fridge (covered) for up to 3 days, or freeze pre-scooped portions so you can bake fresh cookies on a whim.

What’s the best way to ship these cookies?

Pack fully cooled Cowboy Cookies between layers of wax paper in a sturdy container. They’re sturdy, travel well, and make fantastic care package treats for loved ones far and near!

Final Thoughts

Baking a batch of Cowboy Cookies isn’t just about making dessert; it’s about sharing warmth, nostalgia, and a little taste of home. Whether you bake them for a gathering, gift, or simply to treat yourself, these cookies promise to deliver comfort and smiles. It’s high time you gave this legendary recipe a try—happy baking!

Cowboy Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 36 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the deliciousness of these classic Cowboy Cookies, packed with oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts for a chewy and satisfying treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Add-Ins:

2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients.
Add Mix-Ins: Stir in oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts if using.
Bake: Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. Cool before serving.