These Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are legendary for a reason. Big, thick, and packed full of oats, chocolate chips, pecans, and coconut, these cookies are hearty and delicious. Originally made famous by Laura Bush in a cookie bake-off, these cookies are the perfect blend of texture and flavor, making them a favorite for both casual baking and special occasions. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies
- Instructions for Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies
- Baking Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions for Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Add Mix-Ins
- Stir in the chocolate chips, rolled oats, coconut, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
- Using a large cookie scoop or about 1/4 cup of dough, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Baking Tips & Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother dough and more even baking.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tougher cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Large Cookies: These cookies are meant to be big! Use a 1/4 cup scoop to get that classic cowboy cookie size.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans and replace them with an equal amount of additional chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
- Add Spices: Add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I store Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes if it becomes too firm to scoop.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
These Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are the perfect combination of sweet, chewy, and crunchy, with an abundance of delicious mix-ins that make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Give this classic recipe a try, and enjoy the big, bold flavors of these hearty cookies!
Happy baking, and enjoy these iconic Cowboy Cookies!
