Description of this recipe
Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a rich blend of flavors and textures in every bite. With a mix of chewy oats, crunchy pecans, and sweet coconut, all enveloped in a buttery, cinnamon-scented dough, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. The addition of semisweet chocolate chips brings a touch of decadence that makes these cookies perfect for any occasion.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe because it encapsulates the essence of comfort food while offering a unique twist with the combination of ingredients. The cookies are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit various preferences. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, Cowboy Cookies are a crowd-pleaser. They also keep well, making them perfect for meal prep or as a homemade gift.
Introduction
Cowboy Cookies have a fun and storied past, attributed to former First Lady Laura Bush. This recipe draws inspiration from the traditional cowboy fare of the American West, where hearty, sweet treats were a staple for those on the go. Each bite of these cookies transports you to a campfire under the stars, evoking memories of gatherings with friends and family. With a perfect blend of textures—from the chewiness of oats to the crunch of pecans—these cookies offer something for everyone. Not to mention, they are incredibly easy to whip up and will fill your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma as they bake.
Let’s dive into the delightful experience of making and sharing these scrumptious Cowboy Cookies!
Ingredients:
- 12 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 1/2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven. To prepare for baking, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat (Silpat).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step is essential for ensuring even distribution of the leavening agents and spices throughout the cookie dough.
Step 3: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add both the brown and white sugars, continuing to mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming method is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a light texture.
Step 4: Add the beaten eggs in two portions, combining thoroughly after each addition. Follow this by pouring in the vanilla extract, beating it until well incorporated into the mixture.
Step 5: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the rolled oats, semisweet chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed in the dough.
Step 6: For large cookies, use a standard 1/4 cup scoop to drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart. For smaller cookies, utilize a tablespoon-sized scoop.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven: large cookies for approximately 14 to 18 minutes and small cookies for about 13 to 16 minutes. Be sure to rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Step 8: Once the cookies are golden brown around the edges, remove them from the oven. Let them rest on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
COOKING Rating: 4.8/5
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Cowboy Cookies warm with a glass of cold milk or a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. They can also be added to a dessert platter alongside brownies or bars at birthday parties and family gatherings.
Tips:
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming; this will help achieve the best texture.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as dried fruit or different types of nuts.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per cookie, based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 2.5g
- Sodium: 95mg
Conclusion
Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they are a culinary nod to the spirit of the West and a beloved family recipe that has stood the test of time. Their combination of wholesome ingredients and rich flavors makes them the perfect addition to any baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or as part of a packed lunch, these cookies embody comfort and nostalgia. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in baking these unforgettable cookies!
Questions and Answers about this recipe
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted in this recipe?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to about 1/4 teaspoon. - How long will these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they will stay fresh for about a week. For longer freshness, you can freeze them. - Can I replace the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews, depending on your preference. - Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure your other ingredients are also gluten-free. - Can I make the dough ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Enjoy baking these Cowboy Cookies and share the joy they bring with your loved ones!
