Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies

Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are a delightful treat that bring together the best of classic cookie ingredients in one hearty and satisfying recipe. With a combination of chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans, these cookies are a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch. Inspired by the First Lady’s recipe, these cookies are ideal for gatherings, bake sales, or just a delicious homemade treat.

Ingredients

To make Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cookies.

1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise.
1 tablespoon baking soda: Another leavening agent for a perfect texture.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor.

1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
1 ½ cups (3 sticks) butter, room temperature: Creates a rich, buttery texture.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough.

1 ½ cups light-brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a caramel flavor.
3 eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and flavor.

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips: Adds chocolatey richness.
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: Provides a chewy texture.
2 cups sweetened flake coconut: Adds a tropical twist.
2 cups chopped pecans: Adds a nutty crunch.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon salt. This mixture will ensure your cookies rise properly and have a balanced flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) room-temperature butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add 1 ½ cups granulated sugar and 1 ½ cups light-brown sugar, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add 3 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Stir in 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips, 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 2 cups sweetened flake coconut, and 2 cups chopped pecans.

Step 6: Shape and Bake Cookies

Shape Dough: Drop dough by ¼ cup portions, spaced 3 inches apart, onto an ungreased baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 15-17 minutes, rotating baking sheets halfway through for even baking. The cookies are done when the edges are lightly browned.

Step 7: Cool

Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
Rotate Baking Sheets: For even baking, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
Cool Before Storing: Let the cookies cool completely before storing them to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use different nuts?

Yes, you can substitute the pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

2. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While rolled oats provide a chewier texture, quick oats can be used in a pinch, though the texture may be slightly different.

3. How do I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

4. Can I make these cookies without coconut?

Yes, you can omit the coconut if you prefer. The cookies will still be delicious without it.

5. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are a fantastic treat that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. With a blend of chocolate chips, oats, coconut, and pecans, these cookies offer a satisfying crunch and sweetness. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or stored for later—either way, they’re a delightful indulgence!