Cowboy Cookies Recipe

Cowboy cookies are a delicious treat that combines all of the best ingredients in one cookie: oats, chocolate chips, coconut, nuts, and a bit of candy. These cookies are hearty and sweet, making them perfect for a snack, dessert, or gift. With their chewy texture and rich flavor, it’s easy to see why they’re a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love Cowboy Cookies because they are packed with everything I want in a cookie—chewy oats, smooth chocolate chips, crunchy nuts, and a hint of coconut. The best part? I can customize them with any mix-ins I like. You can even make them gluten-free or add dried fruit to make them your own. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing!

Ingredients

Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

• 1 cup shredded coconut

• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, like pecans or walnuts)

• 1/2 cup M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.

6. Stir in the oats, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, nuts (if using), and M&Ms or candy-coated chocolates (if using).

7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.

9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 24 cookies.

• Total Time: Around 25-30 minutes (prep + baking time)

Variations

• Add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or cherries for a fruity twist.

• Substitute the chocolate chips with butterscotch or peanut butter chips for a different flavor.

• For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

• To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• To reheat, warm cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to freshen them up.

FAQs

How can I make my Cowboy Cookies even chewier?

To get an extra chewy texture, you can slightly underbake the cookies and allow them to set on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Can I make Cowboy Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or use a store-bought egg replacer.

Can I freeze the dough to bake later?

Absolutely! You can roll the cookie dough into balls and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as usual, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Are Cowboy Cookies gluten-free?

You can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

What other mix-ins can I add to these cookies?

Feel free to get creative! Some fun options include white chocolate chips, chopped dried fruits, or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.

Conclusion

Cowboy Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. They’re versatile, easy to make, and perfect for satisfying cravings or sharing with friends and family. With a variety of mix-ins and options for customizing the recipe, it’s easy to make these cookies your own. Enjoy baking, and most importantly, enjoy eating these delicious treats!