Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies: A Tasty Treat in 30 Minutes
Short introduction
Cowboy cookies are a delicious twist on the classic cookie. Made famous by former First Lady Laura Bush, these cookies are packed with hearty ingredients like oats, chocolate chips, and pecans. They provide a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a snack, these cookies deliver satisfaction in every bite.
Why you’ll love it
There are plenty of reasons to love Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies. First, they combine the goodness of oats, which offer health benefits like fiber and a satisfying chewiness. The addition of chocolate chips ensures that you have that sweet indulgent flavor, while pecans provide a lovely crunch and rich taste. Plus, they’re quick to make—most of the prep and baking can be done in just about 30 minutes. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or days later, they won’t disappoint!
Ingredients
To make Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies, you’ll need the following 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
Substitutions & key variations
If you’re missing an ingredient, here are some substitutions you can try:
- Butter: You can use margarine, but real butter gives the best flavor.
- Sugar: Replace white sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative for a healthier option.
- Oats: Quick oats can be used instead of rolled oats for a different texture.
- Chocolate chips: Feel free to mix in white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a unique twist.
- Pecans: If you don’t like pecans, try walnuts or even leave them out entirely.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to include all ingredients.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the two large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the pure vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Oats, Chocolate Chips, and Pecans
Gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Bake
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underdone.
Step 7: Cool Down
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create a fluffy dough.
- Texture: Do not overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Common mistakes: Be careful not to bake them for too long; the cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven.
How to serve
Serve these cookies warm, right out of the oven, with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. They’re great as a snack or dessert after any meal. Feel free to garnish them with a sprinkle of sea salt for an added touch of flavor.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer them warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. To enjoy, just defrost them at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes! You can use flaxseed meal or a store-bought egg replacement to make the cookies egg-free.What is the best way to soften butter?
The easiest way is to leave it out at room temperature for a couple of hours. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds on a low power setting.Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or even leave them out altogether.How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure that your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Just store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Cowboy cookies are a great blend of nutritious ingredients. With oats, they provide fiber and energy, while chocolate chips offer a delightful sweet indulgence. Each cookie is a perfect balance of carbs, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying treat.
Conclusion + CTA
Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that everyone will love. With their hearty ingredients and unbeatable flavor, you can whip them up for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and watch them disappear faster than you can bake them!
Links to related recipes
Cowboy Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened Real butter provides the best flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs Can use flaxseed meal as an egg replacement.
- 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 Quick oats can be substituted.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips Feel free to mix in white chocolate or butterscotch chips.
- 1 cup chopped pecans Can substitute with walnuts or omit.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the oats, chocolate chips, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underdone.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.