The Best Cowboy Cookies

Why You’ll Love The Best Cowboy Cookies Recipe

Cowboy cookies are everything you want in a cookie: chewy centers, crispy edges, and a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and chocolaty flavors. The combination of oats and coconut gives them a rich texture, while pecans add a toasty crunch. They’re easy to make in one bowl and store well, making them great for gifting, batch baking, or keeping in the freezer for a quick sweet fix.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

• 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.

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

5. Stir in the oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans until evenly incorporated.

6. Scoop out dough (about 2 tablespoons per cookie) and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set.

8. Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: About 36 cookies
Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per cookie

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

• Dark Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor.

• Dried Fruit Twist: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity bite.

• Spiced Version: Increase cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor profile.

• Mini Cookies: Use a teaspoon-sized scoop for bite-sized cookies and reduce bake time to 8–9 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
To enjoy from frozen, thaw at room temperature or reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore a fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

What makes cowboy cookies different from regular chocolate chip cookies?

Cowboy cookies include oats, coconut, and nuts in addition to chocolate chips, giving them a heartier texture and richer flavor than traditional chocolate chip cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

You can, but old-fashioned oats give a better texture. Quick oats may make the cookies slightly more dense and soft.

How do I keep these cookies chewy?

Avoid overbaking and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture and keeps them chewy.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can chill the dough for up to 48 hours or freeze it in pre-scooped portions for convenient baking later.

Are these cookies good for mailing?

Yes, cowboy cookies hold up well in shipping due to their sturdy texture. Just pack them securely in layers with wax paper.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

You can, but sweetened coconut adds to the chewiness and flavor balance. Unsweetened will result in a slightly drier cookie.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely. Walnuts or almonds are great substitutes if you prefer a different nut or want to use what you have on hand.

What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag to prevent using too much.

How can I make these cookies crispier?

Bake them for an extra 1–2 minutes, or flatten them slightly before baking to encourage a thinner, crispier texture.

Conclusion

Cowboy cookies are a classic, satisfying treat that combines the best of multiple cookie worlds. With rich flavors, chewy texture, and endless ways to customize, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them or savoring them solo, one bite will show why these cookies never go out of style.