Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies You Must Try!

Name: Laura Bush's Cowboy Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature.); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 cups rolled oats; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) (Pecans or walnuts work wonderfully.); 1 cup shredded coconut (optional) (Use sweetened or unsweetened coconut based on preference.)

Published December 6, 2025 By Carol bonaparte

Delicious batch of Laura Bush's Cowboy Cookies on a baking tray

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There’s something truly magical about diving into a batch of freshly baked cookies, especially when they evoke nostalgia and cozy moments spent in a loving kitchen. One such delightful treat that steals the show is Laura Bush’s famous Cowboy Cookies. Bursting with rich flavors, textures, and colors, these cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying after a long day, or just relishing with a glass of milk on a lazy afternoon.

Imagine biting into a warm cookie, where hearty oats mingle with gooey chocolate chips and a hint of coconut—a perfect harmony of flavors that will make you feel right at home. Perfect for the fall season with its inviting warmth, this recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients that are usually pantry staples. So get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible cookies and treat yourself and loved ones to something truly special!

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients

To make Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need in your kitchen to bake these delectable cookies:

Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
Baking sheets (ungreased)
Parchment paper (optional for easier cleanup)
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven mitts
Cooling rack

Helpful Tips

Butter: Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy cookie dough.
Chopped Nuts: Pecans or walnuts work wonderfully as nutty inclusions but feel free to skip them if you prefer nut-free cookies.
Shredded Coconut: This ingredient adds a delightful chewiness and a tropical twist. Use sweetened or unsweetened coconut based on your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions (with tips)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your cookies rise perfectly and develop that golden-brown color.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. A tip here is to use an electric mixer for a creamy texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the two large eggs and the teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is combined and you have a smooth mixture.

Step 4: Combine Flour Mixture

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to distribute the baking soda evenly throughout the flour.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay to have a few lumps in your dough.

Step 6: Fold in Oats and Mix-Ins

Now, fold in the rolled oats and any additional mix-ins you’re using—whether that’s chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut. This is where the magic happens! The dough should start looking yummy and textured.

Step 7: Scoop and Shape

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You might want to use a cookie scoop for consistent sizes!

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cookies are ready when the edges are golden brown but the centers still look a bit soft—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool Down

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents them from breaking apart and allows them to set perfectly.

Variations and Tips

Add Spices: For an extra warming flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.
Chill the Dough: If you have the time, chilling the dough for about an hour can enhance the flavors and texture of the cookies.
Roasting Nuts: For added depth, toast your nuts before adding them to the cookie dough.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips

To store your leftover cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just ensure they are completely cooled, then layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

If you want to enjoy these cookies at a later date, you can also make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. Just scoop the dough onto the baking sheets when you’re ready to bake!

How to Use / Serve This Dish

These Cowboy Cookies are perfect on their own but can be elevated with some fun pairings! Here are some ideas:

Coffee & Tea: Pair your warm cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
Ice Cream Sandwich: For an indulgent treat, turn two cookies into an ice cream sandwich—a perfect summer dessert!
Gift Treats: Pack these cookies into a decorative tin for a heartfelt gift during the holidays or any special occasion.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but consider reducing the added salt in the recipe to keep the cookies from becoming too salty.

2. Can I substitute some of the ingredients?

Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture or swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips based on your preference.

3. How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can stay fresh for about a week—if they even last that long!

4. Is there a good egg substitute for this recipe?

Yes! You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) or unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute to make these cookies vegan-friendly.

5. Why are my cookies too flat?

If your cookies turn out flat, it could be due to using too much butter or not having enough flour. Ensure that you measure your ingredients correctly and consider chilling the dough before baking.

Conclusion

Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are not just cookies; they are a warm hug that welcomes you into the cozy embrace of home-baked goodness. Whether you’re whipping them up for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just because, these cookies will undoubtedly bring smiles to the faces of everyone who tries them. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends or family into the kitchen, and create some sweet memories together.

Now it’s your turn to bake a batch of these irresistible Cowboy Cookies! Share your baking experience, and let us know how they turned out for you—happiness is best when shared, especially when it’s in the form of delicious homemade cookies!