Cowboy Cookies

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup packed light brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Oats, Chocolate Chips, Coconut, and Nuts

Using a spatula, gently fold in the oats, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of the spoon to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers should still be slightly soft, as they will firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to cooling racks to cool completely.