Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

There are a couple of working theories about the origin of cowboy cookies. One claims that cowboy cookies were invented in Texas, the cowboy capital. Another suggests that they were popularized by former first lady Laura Bush who featured her “Texas Governor’s Mansion Cowboy Cookies” during the 2000 presidential Bake-Off.

Although their start may not be clear, the classic cowboy cookie could not be easier to describe. It’s an oatmeal-chocolate chipper, packed with coconut flakes and pecans — and it’s downright delicious.

Makes 3 dozen cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans (plus more pecan halves for garnish)
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (plus more for garnish)
• Flaky sea salt (for garnish)

Pro tip: To achieve a gooey texture, don’t overbake. The extra egg yolk — as in this recipe — also helps create chewiness.

Method

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2

In a large bowl, cream butter and both sugars until well combined and lighter in color (about 2 minutes).

Step 3

Whisk in egg and yolk, beating until well combined. Whisk in milk and vanilla.

Step 4

In a separate large bowl, whisk flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, oats, coconut, pecans, and chocolate chips.

Step 5

Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients in 3 batches, mixing each time just until combined. 

Step 6

Scoop balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until cookies are golden and set at the edges but still slightly soft in the center.

Step 7

Press extra chocolate chips and pecan halves onto cookies while still warm and sprinkle with flaky salt (optional). Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for five days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Extra Tips

For a deeper flavor, brown half the butter before adding it to the wet ingredients. Cowboy cookies are easily customizable: Consider adding 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract, or 2 tablespoons freshly ground espresso for a more unique flavor profile.

Cowboy cookies make an excellent treat for teachers, neighbors, and loved ones. Check out seven more baked goods well-suited for gifting.