One whiff of freshly baked Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies and you’ll be reminded of cozy family gatherings, laughter, and the sweet comfort of home. These cookies strike a perfect balance between chewy and crunchy, with a delightful sprinkle of flavor in every bite, especially since they boast heart-healthy oats and antioxidant-rich chocolate. Did you know that oats are known to lower cholesterol levels? So, while these cookies might seem like a guilty pleasure, they also usher in some wholesome nutrition.
Best Bush’s Cowboy Cookies
Deliciously chewy and crunchy cookies with oats and chocolate, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugars for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in oats, chocolate chips, and pecans.
- Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto prepared sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers look slightly underdone.
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a richer flavor, toast the pecans before adding them. For chewier cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes prior to baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Why Bush’s Cowboy Cookies Are a Family Favorite
If you’re looking for a reliable recipe that never disappoints, Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies have you covered. This recipe combines the simplicity of traditional baking with a touch of nostalgia, fondly bringing warmth to your kitchen. Plus, they’re versatile enough that you can whip them up for any occasion, be it a casual Sunday treat or an extravagant holiday spread. Let’s roll our sleeves up, grab our aprons, and get ready to bake something memorable!
Ingredient Lineup
To get started, gather your ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
These ingredients come together to create a cookie that’s not only delicious but also robust with textures—a treat that truly satisfies.
Step-by-Step Method
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Candied Cowboy Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cream butter and sugars for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy—this helps to incorporate air, giving your cookies a tender texture.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in vanilla for that aromatic touch.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined—don’t over mix to keep those cookies nice and soft.
- Fold in oats, chocolate chips, and pecans, ensuring even distribution of all those delightful ingredients.
- Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto prepared sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers look slightly underdone—this is the secret to a chewy cookie!
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here to avoid breakage!
Nutrition Breakdown
Each serving of these Cowboy Cookies provides a delightful taste of home baking without the guilt. Here’s the nutrition info for a single cookie (approximately):
- Serving size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
Incorporating oats not only adds fiber but also gives you that much-needed energy boost. So, enjoying one cookie means you’re getting a little afternoon pick-me-up!
How to Serve It Best
These cookies are perfect for a cozy family gathering, afternoon tea, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. Serve them warm out of the oven with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate pairing. Want to elevate the experience? Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae or a cup of hot coffee to complement the chocolate in the cookies. Don’t forget to bring them along to your next picnic or potluck; they’re always a hit!
Keep It Fresh
To store your delicious Cowboy Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their life, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to indulge, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up, and experience the delightful melty chocolate all over again.
Pro Tips
- For a richer flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the mixture—this enhances their nuttiness and gives the cookies a gourmet edge.
- If you prefer an even chewier cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking; this helps to set the shape and enhance flavors.
- Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, while still maintaining that classic texture.
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a more intense chocolate flavor—just be prepared for a deep, luscious treat!
- For a festive flair, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough; this will elevate your cookies and make them perfect for holiday gatherings.
Flavor Experiments
Want to switch things up? Here are a few creative ideas to make your Cowboy Cookies even more delightful:
- Seasonal Twist: Add dried cranberries or pumpkin spice to the mix during the fall to give your cookies a seasonal flair.
- Gourmet Variation: Substitute white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts for a nutty and creamy combination in your next batch.
- Playful Spin: Try mixing in crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty contrast—this adds an unexpected crunch along with fun chewiness.
Learn from My Mistakes
While baking is a joy, mistakes can happen! Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Cookies Spread Too Much: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted—the right texture keeps them from spreading too thin.
- Dry Cookies: Don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients; a little flour streak here and there is okay!
- Uneven Baking: Be sure to rotate your baking sheets halfway through for even cooking, especially if you’re using multiple sheets in the oven.
- Burnt Bottoms: Keep an eye on your cookies—and consider using light-colored baking sheets for even heat distribution.
- Tough Consistency: Measure flour precisely—too much can lead to tough cookies; a kitchen scale can be handy for accuracy.
Creative Second-Day Ideas
Already have some leftover Cowboy Cookies? Here’s how to reinvent them:
- Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Slice your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a sweet treat that’s sure to impress kids and adults alike.
- Cookie Crumble Topping: Crumble the cookies over a bowl of yogurt or ice cream for a delicious crunch that’s both satisfying and creative.
- S’mores Upgrade: Make mini s’mores by layering some melted chocolate, marshmallows, and a Cowboy Cookie—you’ll relish the delightful twist.
Curious Cooks Ask
Can I use gluten-free flour for Cowboy Cookies?
Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best results in texture.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just scoop and bake whenever you’re craving a warm cookie!
How do I prevent my cookies from becoming too hard?
Avoid overbaking and cool them on the baking sheet for just a few minutes—this trick will keep them chewy and soft.
Are Cowboy Cookies a good choice for gift-giving?
Definitely! These cookies travel well when packed nicely in tins or boxes, making them a perfect gift for friends or loved ones, especially during the holidays.