Cowboy Cookie Bars are thick, chewy, and packed with everything you love in a classic cookie — oats, chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans — all baked into one irresistible bar. These hearty treats combine the comforting texture of oatmeal cookies with the rich flavor of chocolate and nuts, creating the ultimate snack or dessert for any occasion. Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or late-night cravings, these bars are rustic, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.
Cowboy Cookie Bars:
With their golden-brown edges and gooey centers, Cowboy Cookie Bars are a nostalgic treat that brings warmth and comfort to every bite. They’re quick to make, easy to serve, and perfect for anyone who loves a mix of crunchy, chewy, and chocolatey goodness in one bite.
History:
Cowboy Cookies are said to have originated in the American West, gaining popularity as hearty, portable snacks for cowboys and travelers. They became famous during the 2000 U.S. presidential election when Laura Bush’s version of the recipe beat out Tipper Gore’s in a family cookie contest. Over time, bakers began transforming the classic cookie into bar form for easier baking and thicker, chewier texture — leading to the creation of Cowboy Cookie Bars we love today.
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Cowboy Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in oats, coconut, chocolate chips, and pecans.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Use old-fashioned oats for a chewy texture.
- Substitute chocolate chips with chunks for extra gooeyness.
- Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty twist.
- Let bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips for Cowboy Cookie:
- Toast nuts before adding for deeper flavor.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate for a bakery-style finish.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
- Double the recipe for parties or bake sales.
- Serve warm with ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
You can, but the texture will be slightly softer. Rolled oats work best for chewiness
Q: Can I freeze Cowboy Cookie Bars?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: What can I substitute for pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds make great alternatives.
Q: How do I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Q: Can I make them without coconut?
Absolutely! Just increase the oats slightly to maintain texture.
Conclusion:
Cowboy Cookie Bars are the perfect fusion of hearty ingredients and rich, chewy sweetness. Every bite bursts with chocolate, oats, and crunchy nuts — making them the ultimate comfort dessert. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, sharing at work, or craving something sweet, these bars always deliver cowboy-sized flavor and satisfaction.