LAURA BUSH’S COWBOY COOKIES

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Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies: A Big and Bold Recipe

Cowboy Cookies are a classic American treat, made famous by former First Lady Laura Bush during a cookie bake-off contest with Tipper Gore in 2000. These cookies became widely celebrated for their hearty texture, rich flavors, and enormous size. Packed with oats, chocolate chips, pecans, and coconut, they’re a delicious representation of Texas hospitality and home-style baking.

History of Cowboy Cookies

Cowboy Cookies have roots in traditional American baking, blending simple pantry staples into a robust, portable snack. Originally designed to provide energy for cowboys on long trails, this version elevates the concept into a decadent dessert. Laura Bush’s recipe gained attention when it won a cookie contest, reflecting her Texan roots with bold and satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

Makes about 24 large cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 tablespoon baking soda

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon salt

1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1½ cups granulated sugar

1½ cups packed light-brown sugar

3 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Cookie Dough

  1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  3. Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
  4. Add mix-ins: Fold in the chocolate chips, oats, coconut, and pecans until evenly distributed.

Baking

  1. Shape the cookies: Scoop large dough balls (about ¼ cup each) and place them 2-3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
  2. Bake: Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.
  3. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Benefits of Cowboy Cookies

  1. Energy Boost: Packed with oats, nuts, and chocolate, they’re a great source of quick energy.
  2. Rich in Nutrients: Pecans provide healthy fats and antioxidants, while oats offer fiber.
  3. Versatile: The recipe can be adapted with raisins, dried fruits, or different nuts.

Nutrition Information (per cookie, approximate)

Calories: 300

Protein: 4g

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fat: 15g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 24g

Formation and Methods

Cowboy Cookies are known for their rustic, oversized appearance. The key to their perfect formation lies in shaping the dough balls generously and leaving enough space on the baking sheet for them to spread. Proper creaming of butter and sugar is crucial for a soft, chewy texture, while careful folding of the mix-ins ensures an even distribution of flavors.

Who Loves These Cookies?

  1. Families: Great for holidays or after-school treats.
  2. Baking Enthusiasts: A fun and forgiving recipe to experiment with.
  3. Outdoor Enthusiasts: Perfect for hikes, camping trips, or road snacks.

Conclusion

Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a piece of American history and a delicious representation of hearty, home-baked goodness. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or packed for an outdoor adventure, these cookies are bound to bring joy and satisfaction to anyone lucky enough to have one.

Happy Baking!

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