• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Recipes
    • Breakfast
    • Side Dishes
  • Dinners
  • Desserts
  • About
    • Contact Us
  • Subscribe

Bake It With Love

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
    • Breakfast
    • Side Dishes
  • Dinners
  • Desserts
  • About
    • Contact Us
  • Subscribe
  • Join Us!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
      • Breakfast
      • Side Dishes
    • Dinners
    • Desserts
    • About
      • Contact Us
    • Subscribe
  • Join Us!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Cookies & Bars

    Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com · Leave a Comment

    Cowboy Cookies

    Share This Recipe!

    • Share
    • Twitter
    • Yummly
    • Print
    • Email
    Jump to Recipe
    Best cowboy cookies pin with freshly baked cookies on light background sprinkled with ingredients.

    Cowboy cookies are thick, chewy, and packed with tasty mix-ins like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and chopped pecans! Loaded with flavor, they taste like they are fresh from the bakery! These easy cookies are a real crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.

    Easy Cowboy Cookies Recipe

    If you've never heard of cowboy cookies before, they are thick and chewy cookies that have a ton of delicious treats mixed into the dough before being baked! They're the perfect cookies for anyone that has a big appetite!

    I love to whip these cookies up for game days or parties because I know they are bound to be a huge hit with everyone! No matter the occasion, these cookies always are the first to vanish!

    Cowboy cookies stacked on light background with sprinkled ingredients (coconut, pecans, chocolate chips).
    These hearty cowboy cookies are loaded with a variety of tasty mix-ins!
    Jump to:
    • Easy Cowboy Cookies Recipe
    • 🥘 Cowboy Cookies Ingredients
    • 🔪 How To Make Cowboy Cookies
    • 💭 Angela's Tips & Recipe Notes
    • 🥡 Storing
    • ❓ FAQ
    • 🍪 Tasty Cookie Recipes To Try
    • 📋 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    🥘 Cowboy Cookies Ingredients

    These common baking staples can easily be found at any grocery store! Make sure to grab some chocolate chips, pecans, and coconut and you are good to go!

    Cowboy Cookies Ingredients measured out and ready to combine.
    • Butter - 1½ cups of softened, room-temperature butter. Using butter that is at room temperature is especially important as it helps the butter and sugar to cream together seamlessly while also allowing even baking.
    • Brown Sugar - 1½ cups of light brown sugar, packed. Swap it out for dark brown sugar if you want a rich molasses flavor.
    • Sugar - 1½ cups of sugar.
    • Eggs - 3 large, room-temperature eggs.
    • Vanilla - 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Opt for pure vanilla (instead of imitation) for the best flavor.
    • Baking Powder - 1 tablespoon of baking powder.
    • Baking Soda - 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
    • Cinnamon - 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon.
    • Salt - 1 teaspoon of salt.
    • Flour - 3 cups of all-purpose flour. Make sure to spoon and level it for accurate measuring!
    • Old-Fashioned Oats - 3 cups of old-fashioned oats for that wonderfully chewy texture.
    • Chocolate Chips - 3 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
    • Pecans - 2 cups of toasted pecans, chopped.
    • Coconut - 2 cups of unsweetened shredded coconut.

    *Be sure to see the free printable recipe card below for ingredients, exact amounts & instructions with tips!*

    🔪 How To Make Cowboy Cookies

    There's nothing difficult about these cookies, as all you have to do is mix the ingredients together and pop them in the oven! To get started, grab your baking sheets, a mixing bowl, and your measuring utensils.

    You'll end up with about 36 cookies, depending on how large you make them!

    Prepare

    1. Prepare. To get started, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line your baking sheet(s) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
    2. Toast the pecans. In a dry medium-sized skillet, add your 2 cups of chopped pecans and toast them over medium heat until fragrant. Immediately remove them from the heat and transfer the pecans into a clean bowl to stop the toasting. Set aside.

    Make The Dough

    Cowboy Cookies process photo 1 toasted pecans.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 2 add butter and sugar.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 3 creamed butter and sugar.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 4 add eggs one at a time.
    1. Cream the butter. In a large mixing bowl (or using your stand mixer), cream together 1½ cups each of butter, brown sugar, and white sugar on low speed. Once combined, increase the speed to medium and beat the mixture until nice and smooth.
    2. Add dough ingredients. Add 3 eggs, one at a time, and beat between each addition. Then, mix in 1 tablespoon each of vanilla, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until combined.
    3. Mix in flour. Next, gradually add in 3 cups of all-purpose flour and beat until just combined.
    4. Fold in the mix-ins. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in 3 cups of oats, 3 cups of chocolate chips, 2 cups of pecans, and 2 cups of shredded coconut.
    5. Roll into balls. Roll your dough into equal-sized balls (about ¼-cup of dough each) and space them out on the prepared baking sheets.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 5 add cinnamon, baking soda, salt.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 6 add flour.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 7 combined dough.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 8 adding stir-ins.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 9 cowboy cookie dough ready to bake.
    Cowboy Cookies process photo 10 portioned dough on baking sheet.

    Bake The Cookies

    1. Bake. Bake in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 15-17 minutes, turning the cookie sheets halfway through baking. If you are making smaller cookies, adjust the baking time accordingly.
    2. Cool. Once the tops have begun to brown, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the pans for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    These cookies are such a popular cookie that you can easily add them to any gift basket! Of course, you can always keep them for yourself, too! Enjoy!

    💭 Angela's Tips & Recipe Notes

    • If you want your cookies to be extra thick, pop them into the freezer after forming them into balls for about 20 minutes. This will slow down the spreading process and they will remain thicker.
    • Using room temperature ingredients helps the butter to cream together with the sugar into an ultra-smooth consistency. This will yield the best cookies. It also helps your cookies to bake quickly and evenly.
    • Measure out your all-purpose flour by fluffing it up with a fork and then using a spoon to scoop it into your measuring cup. Finally, use a knife to level off the top. This ensures that you are not over packing the flour, causing cookies that are overly dense

    🥡 Storing

    Keep your cookies at room temperature in a sealed container or Ziploc bag for up to 4 days.

    To freeze, place your baked cookies into a sealed container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow them to defrost before enjoying them.

    Best cowboy cookies recipe packed with pecans, coconut, and chocolate chips.

    >>>>See all of my recipes HERE<<<<

    ❓ FAQ

    Why Are They Called Cowboy Cookies?

    There are a bunch of tales floating around as to how these tasty cookies got their name! Rumor has it that cowboy cookies were similar to a protein bar! They stored well, so cowboys would take them with them and enjoy them on the trails. Of course, they are also incredibly hearty and filling!

    Can I Use Instant Oats?

    You can, but I wouldn't recommend it. Instant oats absorb moisture much faster than old-fashioned oats and can cause your cookies to become drier than you might like. As a result, this could alter the texture of the cookies.

    Can I Make Cowboy Cookies Without Coconut?

    Sure! These cookies are incredibly versatile and you can easily change and adjust the mix-ins that you use! You can omit the coconut or swap it out for something different.

    🍪 Tasty Cookie Recipes To Try

    • Chocolate Blossom Cookies - These cookies are a chocolate lover's dream as they feature a dark chocolate cookie base with a Hershey's kiss on top!
    • Polar Bear Paw Print Cookies - These incredibly adorable cookies are the perfect addition to any wintertime festivities!
    • Sprinkle Crinkle Cookies - Red and green sprinkles makes these mouthwatering cookies fun and festive!
    • Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies - For when you're craving some cookies but don't need a large batch, this is the recipe you need!
    • Peanut Butter Cookies - Classic peanut butter cookies can be enjoyed year-round!
    • Christmas M&M Cookies - Adding M&M candies to your cookies is a great way to get chocolate flavor with some fun colors!

    Do you love a recipe you tried? Please leave a 5-star 🌟rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page.
    Stay in touch with me through social media @ Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! Subscribe to the newsletter today (no spam, I promise)! Don't forget to tag me when you try one of my recipes!

    📋 Recipe

    Best cowboy cookies recipe with toasted pecans, coconut, and chocolate chips.
    Print Recipe Leave A Comment
    Love This Recipe?Click On A Star To Rate It!
    5 from 11 reviews

    Cowboy Cookies

    Cowboy cookies are thick, chewy, and packed with tasty mix-ins like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and chopped pecans! Loaded with flavor, they taste like they are fresh from the bakery! These easy cookies are a real crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.
    Author | Angela
    Servings: 36 servings
    Calories: 365kcal
    Prep 5 minutes minutes
    Cooking 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes minutes
    Pin Recipe Share on Facebook

    Ingredients
     

    • 1½ cups butter (softened, at room temperature)
    • 1½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
    • 1½ cup sugar
    • 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 1 tablespoon baking soda
    • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour (spoon and leveled)
    • 3 cups old fashioned oats
    • 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • 2 cups pecans (chopped, toasted)
    • 2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
    Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela

    Instructions

    • To get started, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet(s) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
    • In a dry medium-sized skillet, add your chopped pecans and toast them over medium heat until fragrant. Immediately remove them from the heat and transfer the pecans into a clean bowl to stop the toasting. Set aside.
      2 cups pecans
    • In a large mixing bowl (or using your stand mixer), cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar on low speed. Once combined, increase the speed to medium and beat the mixture until nice and smooth.
      1½ cups butter, 1½ cup light brown sugar, 1½ cup sugar
    • Add in the eggs, one at a time, and beat between each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined.
      3 large eggs, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
    • Next, gradually add in the all-purpose flour and beat until just combined.
      3 cups all-purpose flour
    • Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the oats, chocolate chips, pecans, and shredded coconut.
      3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 2 cups pecans, 2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut, 3 cups old fashioned oats
    • Roll your dough into equal-sized balls (about ¼-cup of dough each) and space them out on the prepared baking sheets.
    • Bake in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 15-17 minutes, turning the cookie sheets halfway through baking. If you are making smaller cookies, adjust the baking time accordingly.
    • Once the tops have begun to brown, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the pans for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Equipment You May Need

    KitchenAid Professional 600 Stand Mixer
    rubber spatula
    Baking Sheet

    Notes

    • If you want your cookies to be extra thick, pop them into the freezer after forming them into balls for about 20 minutes. This will slow down the spreading process and they will remain thicker.
    • Using room temperature ingredients helps the butter to cream together with the sugar into an ultra-smooth consistency. This will yield the best cookies. It also helps your cookies to bake quickly and evenly.
    • Measure out your all-purpose flour by fluffing it up with a fork and then using a spoon to scoop it into your measuring cup. Finally, use a knife to level off the top. This ensures that you are not overpacking the flour, causing cookies that are overly dense. 
    • To store: Keep your cookies at room temperature in a sealed container or Ziploc bag for up to 4 days.
    • To freeze: Place your baked cookies into a sealed container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow them to defrost before enjoying them. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 365kcal (18%) | Carbohydrates: 40g (13%) | Protein: 4g (8%) | Fat: 22g (34%) | Saturated Fat: 12g (75%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 37mg (12%) | Sodium: 230mg (10%) | Potassium: 227mg (6%) | Fiber: 4g (17%) | Sugar: 23g (26%) | Vitamin A: 270IU (5%) | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 49mg (5%) | Iron: 2mg (11%)
    Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can’t wait to see your results! Mention @bake_it_with_love or tag #bake_it_with_love!
    best cowboy cookies, cookie recipe, cowboy cookie ingredients, cowboy cookies, cowboy cookies recipe, easy cowboy cookies recipe, homemade cowboy cookies, how to make cowboy cookies
    Course cookies, Dessert
    Cuisine American
    author profile photo
    Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com

    Angela is an at home chef that developed a passion for all things cooking and baking at a young age in her Grandma's kitchen. After many years in the food service industry, she now enjoys sharing all of her family favorite recipes and creating tasty dinner and amazing dessert recipes here at Bake It With Love!

    bakeitwithlove.com/about/
    « Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
    How To Host A Cookie Swap Party »

    Share This Recipe!

    • Share
    • Twitter
    • Yummly
    • Print
    • Email

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Thanks for coming! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
    Author bio photo with cake.

    Hi there, I'm Angela! I'm an avid vintage cookbook collector, recipe creator, animal lover, and total foodie. I love sharing recipes that are new, fun, and creative, as well as great classic recipes just like my Grandma used to make!

    More about me →

    Breakfasts

    • Square image of baked scotch eggs.
      Baked Scotch Eggs
    • Square image of zucchini mushroom quiche.
      Zucchini Mushroom Quiche
    • Square split image showing different fall breakfast ideas.
      Fall Breakfast Recipes
    • Square split image showing different pancake toppings.
      Pancake Toppings
    • Square image of air fryer hard boiled eggs.
      Air Fryer Hard-Boiled Eggs
    • Square split image of Quiche vs Frittata.
      Quiche vs Frittata
    • Square image of sausage cream cheese crescent rolls.
      Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls
    • Square image of asparagus quiche.
      Asparagus Quiche

    Dinner Ideas

    • Square image showing sliced roast beef on a cutting board.
      Roast Beef
    • Square split image showing different fall crockpot dinner ideas.
      Fall Crockpot Dinner Ideas
    • Square split image showing different instant pot fall recipes to make.
      Instant Pot Fall Recipes
    • Square image showing crockpot chicken bacon ranch.
      Crockpot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
    • Square split image showing different chicken wing recipes to make at home!
      Chicken Wings Recipes
    • Square image of chicken teriyaki meatballs.
      Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs With Pineapple
    • Square image of Tennessee onions.
      Tennessee Onions
    • Square split image showing comfort food recipe ideas.
      Comfort Food Recipes
    As Seen On block with logos from the companies Angela has worked with including Mashed, Vice Munchies, Lake Country Journal, Delish, Yummly, and more.

    DISCLAIMER: As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no added cost to you.

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About Angela
    • Privacy Policy
    • Work With Me
    • Contact
    • FAQ
    • Home
    • Accessibility Statement
    • Subscribe
    • Oven Conversions

    Recipes

    • Dinners
    • Desserts
    • Side Dishes
    • Breakfasts
    • Appetizers
    • Condiments
    • Air Fryer
    • Slow Cooker
    • Instant Pot

    Read

    • Collections
    • Baking Basics
    • Conversions
    • Food That Starts With
    • Substitutions
    • Freezing
    • Reheating
    • Food Info
    • Web Stories

    Copyright © 2023 Bake It With Love