Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies

Cowboy Cookies

(Hearty, Chewy, and Packed with Chocolate, Coconut, and Pecans)

If there’s one cookie that screams comfort, nostalgia, and just a touch of indulgence, it’s the Cowboy Cookie. These cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a combination of chewy oats, rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and sweet coconut, all baked into golden, irresistible rounds. Originally popularized in the American West, and famously associated with Laura Bush after her victory in the First Lady Bake-Off, these cookies are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a bake sale, or just because, Cowboy Cookies never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Cookies

Loaded with Mix-Ins: Oats, chocolate, coconut, and pecans give texture and flavor.
Chewy and Soft: Slightly crisp edges with soft, chewy centers.
Easy to Customize: Add your favorite nuts, dried fruit, or extra chocolate chunks.
Perfect for Gifting: Large, hearty cookies are ideal for tins or plates of treats.
Kid-Approved: Everyone loves a cookie packed with chocolate and coconut.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 17–20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Yield: 36 large cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1½ cups granulated sugar
1½ cups packed light brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Mix-Ins

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
3 cups semisweet chocolate chips or chunks
2 cups sweetened flaked coconut
2 cups chopped pecans

Optional: Toast the pecans and coconut for deeper flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 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.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium 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 or stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing for an additional 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Fold in the Mix-Ins

Gently fold in the oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans until evenly distributed. The dough will be thick and chunky—perfect for hearty cookies.

Step 7: Portion the Dough

For large cowboy cookies, scoop about ¼ cup of dough per cookie and place them 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. For smaller cookies, use 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C):

Large cookies: 17–20 minutes
Smaller cookies: 15–18 minutes

The edges should be lightly browned, while the centers remain soft. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even baking.

Step 9: Cool

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies firm up without becoming dry.

Tips for Perfect Cowboy Cookies

Use room-temperature butter to help with creaming.
Slightly underbake for chewy centers.
Toast nuts and coconut for enhanced flavor.
Space cookies well—the dough spreads slightly during baking.
Customize your mix-ins with dried fruit, white chocolate, or extra chocolate chunks.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Freeze Dough: Portion dough onto a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Variations and Add-Ons

Spicy Cowboy Cookies: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle kick.
Chewy Fruit & Nut: Replace chocolate with dried cranberries or raisins.
Extra Chocolate: Mix semi-sweet, milk chocolate, and white chocolate chunks.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a tall glass of milk for classic comfort.
Serve with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy snack.
Include in cookie tins for holidays, gifts, or bake sales.
Top with a sprinkle of sea salt after baking for a sweet-salty twist.

Fun Facts About Cowboy Cookies

Origin: Cowboy Cookies are believed to have originated as a hearty, portable treat for cowboys in the American West, loaded with energy-rich ingredients like oats and nuts.
Presidential Connection: Laura Bush’s version of Cowboy Cookies won the 2000 First Lady Bake-Off, cementing them as a beloved American cookie classic.
Versatile Recipe: Cowboy Cookies are perfect for experimenting—you can switch nuts, chocolate, or add dried fruit to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Cookies are more than just cookies—they’re a nostalgic, hearty, and flavorful treat that brings joy with every bite. The combination of oats, chocolate, coconut, and pecans creates the perfect balance of chewy, sweet, and crunchy. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a simple afternoon treat, Cowboy Cookies are guaranteed to delight.