Vegan Cowboy Cookies

Vegan Cowboy Cookies are truly the "everything bagel" of cookies. These cookies are made with a cinnamon infused oatmeal dough and are filled with chocolate chips, chopped pecans and shredded coconut. Perfection in every bit. Let's learn how to make them!

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Ingredients in Vegan Cowboy Cookies

Wet Ingredients

• Vegan Butter (1 cup): Vegan butter provides fat to the cookies, contributing to their texture and flavor. It helps create a tender and moist cookie while ensuring it's dairy-free.
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup): Brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture to the cookies. The molasses content in brown sugar provides a rich flavor and chewy texture.
• Sugar (½ cup): Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the cookies. The combination of brown and white sugar contributes to the cookies' texture, providing a balance between chewiness and crispiness.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cookies. It adds a sweet and aromatic note that complements the other ingredients.
• Nondairy Milk: Nondairy milk adds additional moisture to the cookie dough making it easier to add in the mix-ins later.

Dry Ingredients

• Baking Soda (1 tsp): Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and become light and tender. It also contributes to the cookies' spread during baking.
• Salt (¾ tsp): Salt enhances the overall flavor of the cookies, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the individual tastes of the ingredients. It also aids in the development of a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp): Cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor to the cookies, enhancing the overall taste. It pairs well with the other ingredients, especially the oats and chocolate chips.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Flour provides structure to the cookies. It acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the ingredients together and giving the cookies their shape.
• Rolled Oats (1 ½ cups): Rolled oats contribute to the texture of cowboy cookies, providing a hearty and chewy element. They also add a rustic, wholesome quality to the cookies.
• Chopped Pecans (1 cup): Pecans add a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture to the cookies. They contribute to the overall richness and provide a delightful contrast to the softness of the dough.
• Shredded Coconut (1 cup): Shredded coconut adds sweetness and a chewy texture to the cookies. It also complements the other flavors, especially the pecans and chocolate chips.
• Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Chocolate chips add a sweet and indulgent element to the cookies. They melt during baking, creating pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the cookie and enhancing the overall flavor.

Steps for Making Vegan Cowboy Cookies (with pictures)

1. Make Cookie Dough: In a large bowl cream together the vegan butter, brown sugar and sugar using an electric hand mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about a minute. Add in the vanilla, nondairy milk, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Beat again until ingredients are well-distributed. Beat in the flour until just combined. Do not over-mix. Add the oats, pecans, coconut and chocolate chips to the bowl and stir until all ingredients are incorporated. 
2. Chill: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 2 tablespoon scoops of cookie dough side by side on the sheet. Continue until all of the dough has been used up. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. 
3. Bake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the cookie dough from the refrigerator and place pre-shaped balls of cookie dough onto the new baking sheet 2 inches apart. Return remaining dough to the fridge. Place baking sheet on center rack of preheated oven and bake cookies for 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat for remaining dough.

Tips for Making Vegan Cowboy Cookies

1. Choose Quality Vegan Butter: Select a high-quality vegan butter that has a good fat content. This will ensure a rich and flavorful cookie.
2. Experiment with Nut Choices: Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds. You can also add a variety of nuts for a more complex flavor.
3. Use Rolled Oats: Rolled oats provide a hearty and chewy texture. Avoid instant oats, as they can lead to a different consistency in the cookies.
4. Adjust Flour as Needed: If the cookie dough seems too wet, add a bit more flour. Conversely, if it's too dry, a touch of non-dairy milk can help achieve the desired consistency.
5. Mix-Ins and Variations: Get creative with mix-ins. Besides chocolate chips, try dried fruit, shredded coconut, or seeds. This adds variety and personalizes the cookies.
6. Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before scooping and baking. This helps control spreading during baking.
7. Proper Scooping Technique: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure uniform cookie sizes. This helps the cookies bake evenly.
8. Mind Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can result in dry cookies, so aim for a slightly underdone center when you take them out of the oven.
9. Cooling on the Pan: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without breaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use as a substitute for chopped pecans?

You can substitute chopped pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or omit them altogether if you have nut allergies or preferences.

Can I use gluten-free flour for these vegan cowboy cookies?

Yes, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it includes a binder like xanthan gum to maintain the cookies' structure. Texture may vary.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While quick oats can be used, they have a finer texture than rolled oats. The texture of the cookies might be slightly different, but it's a viable option if that's what you have on hand.

Can I use other mix-ins instead of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can customize your cowboy cookies with raisins, dried cranberries, or even vegan white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

FAQ's Continued

Can I make the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it?

Yes, you can refrigerate the cookie dough for a few hours or overnight before baking. Chilled dough can result in thicker cookies with a slightly different texture.

What adjustments should I make if my cookies are spreading too much during baking?

If the cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough a little bit longer before baking or adding a bit more flour to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I make smaller or larger cookies?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the cookies based on your preference. Just be mindful of the baking time, as smaller cookies may require less time in the oven, and larger ones may need more time.

How to Serve Vegan Cowboy Cookies

Here are some fun serving suggestions:

1. With a Glass of Non-Dairy Milk: Serve the cookies with a glass of your favorite non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. The combination of warm cookies and a cold glass of milk is a classic and comforting choice.
2. As a Cookie Stack: Create a visually appealing cookie stack on individual serving plates. This adds an element of height and elegance to the presentation.
3. With Vegan Ice Cream: Pair warm cowboy cookies with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The warm and chewy cookies complement the cold and creamy ice cream.
4. With Vegan Whipped Cream: Top the cookies with a dollop of vegan whipped cream. This adds a light and airy element to the hearty cookies.
5. With Fresh Berries: Serve the cookies alongside a bowl of fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries. The fruity sweetness complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
6. With a Hot Beverage: Serve the cookies with a hot beverage such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The warmth of the drink complements the heartiness of the cookies.

How to Store Vegan Cowboy Cookies

Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the freshness and texture of vegan cowboy cookies. Here's how to store them effectively:

1. Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the cookies without them being too crowded.
2. Room Temperature: Vegan cowboy cookies can be stored at room temperature for a few days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
3. Freezing: Cowboy cookie dough and fully baked cookies can be frozen for longer storage. To freeze dough, shape it into individual cookie-sized portions and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. Fully baked cookies can be frozen in a single layer and then transferred to a container or bag.
4. Avoid Moisture: Keep the cookies away from moisture, as it can cause them to become soggy. Ensure they are fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation.
5. Add a Slice of Bread: To maintain the cookies' moisture, you can add a slice of fresh bread to the container. The bread will act as a moisture absorber, keeping the cookies soft.
6. Check for Odors: Be cautious about storing cookies near strong-smelling foods, as cookies can absorb odors. Also keep them in a well-sealed container to protect their flavor.
7. Separate Flavors: If storing different types of cookies together, ensure they are well-separated or stored in separate containers to prevent flavor transfer.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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