Ingredients for Cowboy Cookies
To make a batch of cowboy cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of butter (softened)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of rolled oats
- 2 cups of chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, as preferred)
- Walnuts to taste (around 1 cup, chopped)
These ingredients create a balanced blend of flavors, with sweetness from the sugar, a creamy richness from butter, and a satisfying crunch from the walnuts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Cowboy Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar.
- Cream the butter and sugars together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-blended. This process helps to dissolve the sugars and creates a smooth texture for the cookies.
Step 2: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add two eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the cookies.
- Mix until everything is combined and the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Sifting helps to avoid lumps and ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Take care not to over-mix, as this can make the cookies too dense.
Step 4: Add Oats, Chocolate Chips, and Walnuts
- Once the dry ingredients are combined, stir in 2 cups of rolled oats. The oats give the cookies a delightful chewiness.
- Add 2 cups of chocolate chips for that sweet, melty goodness.
- Chop the walnuts (about 1 cup or to your taste) and fold them into the dough. If you prefer pecans or want to skip the nuts altogether, feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
Step 5: Shape the Dough and Bake
- Using a large spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes. The cookies are ready when the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft. They will continue to set as they cool.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutesbefore transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, enjoy your homemade cowboy cookies! They’re perfect with a glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.