Name: Laura Bush's Cowboy Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

If there were ever a cookie recipe that could win an election, it would be Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies. These jumbo, bakery-style cookies are legendary not just for their bold, chewy texture but also for the way they combine comfort and crunch in every bite. Packed with oats, chocolate chips, pecans, and a surprise touch of cinnamon, they’re cookies that feel like home, even if you’re far from Texas.

This recipe rose to fame during the 2000 First Lady cookie bake-off, where Laura Bush’s rich, indulgent cowboy cookies beat Tipper Gore’s more modest gingersnaps. And once you bake a batch yourself, you’ll see why. They’re sweet, filling, and a bit wild—just like a true cowboy should be.

Why You’ll Love This Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies Recipe

There’s something irresistible about a cookie that doesn’t hold back. These are big, bold, Texas-sized cookies that are perfect for bake sales, gifting, or stocking your freezer. They freeze beautifully, taste even better the next day, and come loaded with texture thanks to a trio of mix-ins. Whether you’re serving them with milk or coffee, they always make an impression.

It’s the mix-ins that set cowboy cookies apart from the rest. Traditional chocolate chip cookies are all about the chips, but cowboy cookies go a step further by adding old-fashioned oats, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and a warm touch of cinnamon. They’re like trail mix in cookie form, hearty enough to fuel an afternoon on horseback or just a busy day with the kids.

Ingredients for the Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies

Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are all about layers of texture and flavor, so the ingredient list is packed with pantry staples that come together to create magic. Each component has its role to play, contributing to the chewiness, sweetness, and crunch that make these cookies unforgettable.

All-purpose flour: Provides the base structure and balances the moisture from the eggs and butter.
Baking powder & baking soda: These leaveners help the cookies rise and spread just enough.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle spicy depth that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Unsalted butter: Creates a rich, tender texture while allowing you to control the salt.
Granulated sugar: Brings a light crispness to the edges.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper caramel note.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
Old-fashioned oats: Give the cookies a chewy texture and heartiness.
Sweetened shredded coconut: Brings a subtle tropical flavor and chewy contrast.
Chopped pecans: Add a nutty crunch that complements the soft cookie base.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into pockets of chocolatey goodness in every bite.

How To Make the Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. This prevents sticking and encourages even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution so your cookies rise perfectly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars using a stand mixer or hand mixer until light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is key for that irresistible cookie texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla and mix again until smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Fold in the Goodies

Gently fold in the oats, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. Your dough should be thick and full of mix-ins.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or large spoon, scoop generous portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the middle.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm, or store once fully cooled.

How to Serve and Store Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies

These cookies are generous in size and rich in texture, making them a perfect treat for sharing or stocking up. Each batch makes around 24 big cookies, enough to feed a crowd or keep your cookie jar full for days. Serve them slightly warm for that gooey chocolate chip moment, or pair with a glass of cold milk for an afternoon pick-me-up.

To store, place completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies or portioned dough balls in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake the dough straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time.

What to Serve With Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies?

Coffee

A hot mug of coffee pairs wonderfully with the deep caramel notes from the brown sugar and the richness of chocolate chips.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Turn these cookies into an unforgettable dessert by sandwiching them with creamy vanilla ice cream.

Cold Milk

Sometimes, the classics are best. A tall glass of cold milk makes every bite feel nostalgic.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle some on top of a warm cookie for a decadent twist.

Whipped Cream and Berries

Create a layered dessert by crumbling cookies into a glass and topping with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Hot Chocolate

A cozy pairing that makes these cookies even more comforting on cooler days.

Chocolate Fondue

Use broken pieces of the cookies for dipping. It adds a crunchy twist to your dessert platter.

Espresso

For a bolder option, a small shot of espresso brings out the cookie’s deeper flavors.

If you love these cowboy cookies, you’ll definitely want to try out some of these unique creations next:

• Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies for a classic that melts in your mouth.
• Ooey Gooey Bars if you’re into decadent, buttery bites.
• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons for a tropical crunch with a pop of color.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars that give new life to your candy stash.
• Irresistible Peanut Butter Truffles for a no-bake indulgence that hits the spot.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the pecans or double up on the chocolate chips? Maybe you added dried cherries for a fruity pop?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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