Cowboy Cookies
If you’re on the hunt for a cookie recipe that embodies the spirit of the Wild West while satisfying your sweet tooth, look no further than these Cowboy Cookies. Loaded with hearty oats, rich semi-sweet chocolate chips, and a delightful crunch from toasted coconut and pecans, these cookies are a flavor-packed treat that will transport you straight to a campfire under the stars. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or just because, Cowboy Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why I Love This Recipe
Cowboy Cookies are not just any cookies; they are the ultimate amalgamation of textures and flavors. The combination of chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and melty chocolate creates a cookie that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or adjust the sweetness to your liking. Every bite is a delightful journey through layers of flavor, making them perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
What You’ll Need
To whip up a batch of these delicious Cowboy Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon pieces
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup toasted coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans or candied pecans
- 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt for sprinkling on cookies, optional
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you start baking, make sure you have these tools handy:
- Mixing bowls – for combining the ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
- Whisk or electric mixer – for beating the butter and sugars
- Baking sheets – to spread the cookies on while baking
- Parchment paper – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – for portioning the cookie dough
How to Prepare Cowboy Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure they bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats, toasted coconut, chopped pecans, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The dough will be thick and chunky, which is exactly what you want!
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each dough ball.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet out of the oven.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious Cowboy Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Substitutions by Category
If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to make some adjustments, here are some substitutions you can consider:
- Butter: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Sugars: Coconut sugar can be used in place of brown and granulated sugar for a less refined option.
- Oats: Quick oats can be substituted for rolled oats, but the texture will differ slightly.
- Nuts: Almonds or walnuts can replace pecans for a different flavor and crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate or white chocolate chips can be used for variety.
Avoid These Mistakes
To ensure your Cowboy Cookies come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Do not overmix the dough once you’ve added the flour; this can result in tough cookies.
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them; they need time to set up.
- Don’t skip the sea salt sprinkle on top; it enhances the flavors and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you’re planning to bake these Cowboy Cookies in advance or store leftovers, here are some tips:
You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
To store baked cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies, where they can last up to 3 months.
Reader Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the cookies may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture that is characteristic of Cowboy Cookies.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you don’t have pecans on hand, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each will contribute a unique flavor and texture to the cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent spreading, ensure your butter is properly chilled and not too warm. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can also help maintain the cookie shape.
Make It Tonight
There you have it! A deliciously detailed guide to creating your very own Cowboy Cookies. With their hearty ingredients and rich flavors, these cookies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake a batch of these delightful treats tonight. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they are called “Cowboy Cookies”—they are hearty, satisfying, and downright irresistible!
Enjoy the baking adventure, and happy cookie making!
Cowboy Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure they bake evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats, toasted coconut, chopped pecans, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The dough will be thick and chunky, which is exactly what you want!
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each dough ball.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet out of the oven.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious Cowboy Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Refrigerate cookie dough for up to 3 days before baking to enhance flavors.
- Use different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a unique twist.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
