If you’re a fan of classic American cookies, then you need to try Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies. These cookies are legendary for their hearty combination of oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans, making them chewy, nutty, and absolutely satisfying. Originally made famous during the 2000 presidential campaign, Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies have become a beloved favorite for those who love big, flavorful cookies that are packed with all the best ingredients. Whether you need a treat for a bake sale, a family gathering, or just because, these cookies are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) 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 flaked coconut
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars
- In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and beat until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Add Mix-Ins
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold in the chocolate chips, oats, coconut, and pecans until evenly distributed.
- Form Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or a large spoon, drop 1/4-cup portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
- Bake
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden 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.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and the best cookie texture.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months and bake them as needed.
- Baking Time: Adjust the baking time for smaller or larger cookies. Smaller cookies will need less time, while larger ones may need a minute or two more.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-Free Version: If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free cookie, simply omit the pecans. You can replace them with extra chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- White Chocolate Cranberry: Swap out the semisweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips and add 1 cup of dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of ground ginger to the dry ingredients for a subtle spicy note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats? A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats give the cookies a chewier texture, while quick oats will make them a bit softer.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough? A: Absolutely! You can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Q: Can I use different types of nuts? A: Yes! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts instead of pecans. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference.
Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are an iconic treat that combines the best of everything—chocolate, oats, coconut, and pecans—into one delightful cookie. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday, a bake sale, or simply a treat for yourself. With their generous size and rich flavor, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Try them out and make them your own with the suggested variations. Happy baking!
