Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. Fold in Remaining Ingredients:
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the old-fashioned oats, semisweet chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
7. Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets:
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. If baking multiple sheets at once, rotate the sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips for Success:
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in your cookies.
- Feel free to customize the mix-ins based on your preferences. You can substitute different types of chocolate chips, nuts, or even add dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
- If you prefer chewy cookies, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- For extra flavor, you can toast the nuts and coconut before adding them to the cookie dough. Simply spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Conclusion:
Cowboy cookies are a classic American treat that never goes out of style. With their hearty texture and rich flavors, they’re perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to enjoy as a snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. So grab your apron and cowboy hat, and get ready to bake up a batch of these delicious cowboy cookies today!
