Laura Bush’s Legendary Cowboy Cookies: A Presidential Bake-Off Winner!
Cowboy cookies. The name conjures images of wide-open ranges, hearty flavors, and a cookie big enough to satisfy even the hungriest wrangler. But these aren’t just any ordinary cookies; they’re Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies, the recipe that famously won a bake-off against Tipper Gore during the 2000 presidential campaign. More than just a political victory, these cookies are a testament to the power of a truly delicious, crowd-pleasing treat. This recipe is packed with oats, coconut, chocolate chips, pecans, and a touch of cinnamon, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. Forget flimsy, delicate cookies; these are substantial, chewy, and utterly addictive. Get ready to bake a batch of history – and a batch of incredible cookies!
## The Story Behind the Cookie
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s appreciate the story behind these iconic cookies. During the 2000 presidential race, *Family Circle* magazine held its traditional bake-off between the candidates’ wives (although, technically, Tipper Gore was the vice-presidential candidate’s wife). Laura Bush submitted her Cowboy Cookie recipe, while Tipper Gore offered her Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies. After extensive taste-testing by readers, Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies emerged victorious. This wasn’t just a sweet treat triumph; it solidified the Cowboy Cookie’s place in American baking history and introduced it to a wider audience.
So, what made Laura Bush’s cookies stand out? The secret lies in the combination of textures and flavors. The rolled oats provide a chewy base, while the shredded coconut adds a subtle sweetness and tropical note. The chocolate chips bring classic comfort, and the pecans offer a satisfying crunch. The cinnamon adds a warm, inviting spice that ties everything together. It’s a complex cookie that’s both familiar and exciting.
## Why These Cookies Are So Good
Beyond the historical significance, the real reason Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are so beloved is simply that they taste amazing. Here’s a breakdown of why this recipe works:
* **Texture:** The combination of chewy oats, crisp coconut, crunchy pecans, and melty chocolate chips creates a delightful textural experience in every bite. It’s far from a one-note cookie.
* **Flavor:** The blend of sweet (chocolate, coconut), nutty (pecans), and subtly spiced (cinnamon) flavors is perfectly balanced. No single ingredient overpowers the others.
* **Substance:** These are not delicate, dainty cookies. They’re hearty and filling, making them a satisfying snack or dessert.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite the long list of ingredients, the recipe itself is relatively straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. Perfect for beginner and experienced bakers alike.
* **Adaptable:** The recipe is easily adaptable to suit your personal preferences. You can substitute walnuts for pecans, add dried cranberries, or use different types of chocolate chips.
## Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookie Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the recipe itself. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to baking your own batch of Laura Bush’s famous Cowboy Cookies.
**Yields:** About 3 dozen cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 3 cups rolled oats
* 1 cup shredded coconut
* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
**Equipment:**
* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
* Cookie scoop (optional, but recommended for uniform cookies)
**Instructions:**
**1. Preheat and Prepare:**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center.
* Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier. Parchment paper is preferred as it aids in even baking and less spreading.
**2. Cream Butter and Sugars:**
* In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie. Use an electric mixer (stand or hand mixer) for best results. Creaming incorporates air into the batter, which contributes to the cookie’s texture.
* Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure that all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
**3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:**
* Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
* Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the other flavors in the cookie and adds a warm, aromatic note.
**4. Combine Dry Ingredients:**
* In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking soda and cinnamon are evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing clumps and ensuring consistent flavor.
**5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:**
* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix only until the dry ingredients disappear into the wet ingredients.
**6. Stir in Oats, Coconut, Chocolate Chips, and Nuts:**
* Stir in the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and chopped pecans (or walnuts) until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Make sure all the ingredients are well incorporated so that every cookie is packed with flavor and texture. This step is best done by hand to avoid overmixing.
**7. Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:**
* Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading. For more uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop. A cookie scoop ensures that each cookie is the same size, which helps them bake evenly. If you don’t have a cookie scoop, you can use a tablespoon or simply eyeball it.
**8. Bake:**
* Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cookies. Don’t overbake them, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
**9. Cool:**
* Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cookies on the baking sheets allows them to firm up slightly, preventing them from breaking when you transfer them to the wire rack. Once they’re completely cool, they’re ready to eat!
## Tips for Baking the Perfect Cowboy Cookies
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using softened butter and room temperature eggs will help the ingredients combine more easily and create a smoother batter. This results in a more tender cookie.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cookies. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
* **Measure Accurately:** Accurate measurements are essential for successful baking. Use measuring cups and spoons designed for baking, and level off the ingredients carefully.
* **Chill the Dough (Optional):** Chilling the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much and result in a chewier texture. This is especially helpful if your kitchen is warm.
* **Bake in Batches:** If you’re using more than one baking sheet, bake the cookies in batches to ensure even baking. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
* **Store Properly:** Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to customize the recipe to your liking. Try adding dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or different types of nuts.
## Variations and Adaptations
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to customize your Cowboy Cookies:
* **Nut-Free:** Omit the pecans or walnuts for a nut-free version. You can replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added texture.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for binding.
* **Vegan:** Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use vegan chocolate chips.
* **Chocolate Chunk:** Replace the chocolate chips with chopped chocolate chunks for a richer chocolate flavor.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a subtle kick.
* **Tropical Twist:** Add a half cup of macadamia nuts.
## Serving Suggestions
Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience:
* **With a Glass of Milk:** A classic pairing that never fails.
* **With Coffee or Tea:** The perfect afternoon treat.
* **As an Ice Cream Sandwich:** Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two Cowboy Cookies.
* **Crumbled over Yogurt or Oatmeal:** Add a touch of sweetness and texture to your breakfast.
* **As a Gift:** Package the cookies in a decorative tin or box and give them as a homemade gift.
## Cowboy Cookies: More Than Just a Recipe
Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a piece of American history and a symbol of simple, comforting pleasures. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these legendary cookies. You won’t be disappointed!
This recipe offers a fantastic starting point for your baking journey. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking and preferences. Happy baking! Enjoy your Presidential Bake-Off winning Cowboy Cookies!
Ultimately, this recipe’s success lies not just in the ingredients but also in the joy of baking and sharing with loved ones. Bake a batch, share the story, and create your own sweet memories.
Baking these cookies is not just about following a recipe; it’s about experiencing a taste of history and connecting with the traditions of home baking. Enjoy every step of the process, from creaming the butter and sugar to savoring the first warm bite. Happy baking!
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of Laura Bush’s legendary Cowboy Cookies. They’re a surefire way to impress your friends, family, and even your political rivals. And who knows, maybe you’ll even start your own cookie revolution!
The journey of baking these cookies extends beyond just the kitchen. It’s a way to connect with a piece of American history and to embrace the simple joys of life. As you share these cookies with others, you’re not just offering a treat; you’re sharing a story, a tradition, and a taste of something truly special.
Remember, the most important ingredient in any recipe is love. Bake with love, share with love, and enjoy every moment of the process. These Cowboy Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a reminder of the power of connection, the importance of tradition, and the simple pleasures that make life so sweet.
The magic of Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies lies not only in their delightful taste and texture but also in their ability to bring people together. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, a neighborhood bake sale, or simply a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to spark conversations and create lasting memories.
So, the next time you’re looking for a recipe that’s both delicious and meaningful, look no further than Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies. They’re a timeless classic that will continue to delight generations to come. Happy baking, and may your cookies always be filled with love and laughter!
Embrace the spirit of the Wild West and the warmth of home baking with every bite of these legendary cookies. They’re a true testament to the power of simple ingredients, shared traditions, and the enduring appeal of a perfectly baked treat.
The legend of Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies continues to inspire bakers and cookie enthusiasts around the world. Their unique combination of flavors and textures, combined with their fascinating history, makes them a truly special and unforgettable treat.
As you bake these cookies, remember that you’re not just following a recipe; you’re participating in a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Share the story of Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies with your friends and family, and let them experience the magic of this presidential bake-off winner.
With each bite of these Cowboy Cookies, you’ll be transported to a world of wide-open spaces, friendly faces, and the comforting aroma of home baking. They’re a true celebration of American ingenuity and the enduring power of a well-made cookie.
So, embrace the spirit of the West, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of Laura Bush’s legendary Cowboy Cookies. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more. Happy baking, and may your cookies always be filled with love and happiness!