Cowboy Cookie Bars Recipe

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Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically, but cooking times and steps remain consistent. Note: scaling may affect the final result.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until fully moistened.
5. Add the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and chopped pecans to the dough. Fold with a spatula until evenly incorporated. The mixture will be thick.
6. Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
8. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into 12 even portions.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 278
• Total Fat: 15g (19% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (38% DV)
• Cholesterol: 51mg (17% DV)
• Sodium: 215mg (9% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 34g (12% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% DV)
• Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 4g (7% DV)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
• Calcium: 36mg (3% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (8% DV)
• Potassium: 122mg (3% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

**Nutrient information may not be available for all ingredients. Consult your doctor or dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind Cowboy Cookie Bars

Cowboy Cookie Bars trace their roots to the American West during the late 19th century. Ranchers and cowboys needed a portable, energy-packed snack that could endure long days on horseback. Combining oats, nuts, and chocolate chips into a single bar offered both durability and nourishment. Over time, this practical treat evolved into a beloved dessert, cherished not only for its convenience but also for its rich, hearty flavor that evokes the rugged spirit of the frontier.

Regional Characteristics

Although now popular across the United States, Cowboy Cookie Bars carry strong associations with Western and Midwestern regions. In these areas, recipes often feature local ingredients such as pecans, walnuts, or shredded coconut for texture and sweetness. In the Southern states, variations may include dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, while the Rocky Mountain states favor a heartier, more rustic style that emphasizes oats and nuts, reflecting the outdoorsy, self-sufficient lifestyle of the region.

Distinctive Features Compared to Similar Desserts

Unlike traditional cookies or granola bars, Cowboy Cookie Bars are known for their dense, chewy texture and layered combination of ingredients. While classic chocolate chip cookies rely primarily on flour and sugar, cowboy bars integrate oats, coconut, chocolate, and nuts, creating a unique balance of flavors and a substantial bite. They are also baked in a single pan, which sets them apart from individually shaped cookies, offering convenience without sacrificing taste.

Where They Are Typically Served

Cowboy Cookie Bars are versatile and appear in many settings. They are a favorite at potlucks, bake sales, and family gatherings due to their ease of preparation and portioning. Cafs and coffee shops often include them as a snack or dessert item, paired with coffee or milk. In homes, they are a popular treat for after-school snacks, picnics, or even as a quick breakfast option for busy mornings, highlighting their multifunctional appeal.

Interesting Facts

• The name Cowboy does not refer to the inclusion of beef or savory ingredients but rather to the rugged, hearty nature of the snack.
• The combination of oats and nuts makes the bars a surprisingly good source of sustained energy, perfect for outdoor activities.
• Many modern recipes now incorporate chocolate chips, but original cowboy cookies were more focused on oats, molasses, and nuts.
• Cowboy Cookie Bars have inspired numerous variations, including gluten-free, vegan, and protein-packed versions, reflecting their adaptability to contemporary dietary trends.
• They are sometimes referred to as ranch bars in certain regions, emphasizing their origins in ranch life and the Western frontier.

FAQ about Cowboy Cookie Bars Recipe

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