There’s no better treat than a warm, chewy cookie loaded with all the good stuff—chocolate, oats, and a touch of coconut. Cowboy Cookies are the ultimate comfort food, combining all the classic ingredients into one sweet, satisfying snack. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something sweet, these cookies are a hit every time. With a crispy edge and a soft center, they’re perfect for dunking in milk or enjoying straight from the cookie jar.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup M&Ms or candy-coated chocolate pieces (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Add the Goodies

Stir in the oats, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and any optional ingredients like walnuts or M&Ms. Mix until the dough is well combined, making sure the oats and chocolate are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set. The cookies will continue to cook a bit after you remove them from the oven, so be careful not to overbake them.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they won’t break apart while they’re still hot. Enjoy with a glass of milk or just on their own!

Cooking Notes & Tips

• Butter Softness: Make sure the butter is softened before mixing it with the sugars. If it’s too cold, the dough won’t cream together properly, and if it’s too warm, the cookies may spread too much while baking.
• Customize the Mix-ins: The beauty of Cowboy Cookies lies in their versatility. Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips for peanut butter chips, butterscotch chips, or any other favorite candy. You can also switch the nuts or skip them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have the time, chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better and enhances the flavors.
• Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or container.

Variations

1. Gluten-Free Cowboy Cookies

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are certified gluten-free, and double-check that your oats are labeled gluten-free as well.

2. Vegan Cowboy Cookies

To make these cookies vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) as a substitute for the eggs. Be sure to use vegan chocolate chips and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.

3. Double Chocolate Cowboy Cookies

For a double chocolate version, replace 1/2 cup of the flour with cocoa powder and increase the chocolate chips to 1 1/2 cups for extra chocolatey goodness. This variation takes the rich, indulgent flavor to a whole new level!

Keto Version

If you’re following a keto diet, you can make a low-carb version of these cookies by using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and substituting the sugar with erythritol or stevia. Be sure to use sugar-free chocolate chips to keep the cookies keto-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these cookies without oats?

Yes, while oats are a key ingredient in Cowboy Cookies, you can substitute them with additional flour or other grains. Keep in mind that this may change the texture, making the cookies less chewy.

2. How do I make my cookies extra chewy?

For chewy cookies, be careful not to overbake them. Slightly underbaking the cookies will ensure they stay soft in the middle. You can also increase the brown sugar slightly, as it adds moisture to the dough.

3. Can I freeze the dough for later?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

4. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your cookies spread too much while baking, the dough might have been too soft or warm. Try chilling the dough before baking, or use a bit more flour next time to achieve the right consistency.

Cowboy Cookies are a delicious, hearty treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own. With their perfect combination of chocolate, oats, coconut, and nuts, they satisfy every sweet tooth. Plus, they’re versatile enough to allow you to customize the ingredients to your liking. Whether you’re baking them for a party, a bake sale, or just because you need a comforting snack, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share the love!