Ranger Cookies

Instructions: How to Make Ranger Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure they bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

Step 4: Add the Oats, Coconut, and Chocolate Chips

1. Stir in the rolled oats, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips (and any other optional add-ins like nuts or raisins). The dough should be thick and slightly sticky at this point, with the oats and coconut evenly distributed.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Dough

1. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheets. Be sure to leave about 2 inches between each cookie, as they will spread slightly as they bake.
2. If you prefer a flatter cookie, you can gently press down on the dough balls with the back of a spoon or your fingers.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.
2. For a chewier cookie, take them out on the earlier side of the baking time. For a crispier cookie, let them bake for the full 12 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

1. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Enjoy the cookies while they’re still warm, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Tips for Perfect Ranger Cookies

• Use old-fashioned oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best for Ranger Cookies, as they provide the right texture. Quick oats may make the cookies too soft, while steel-cut oats will be too coarse.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips for other add-ins like peanut butter chips, butterscotch chips, or even chopped candy bars for a unique twist.
• Chill the dough: If you’re short on time and need to bake the cookies right away, you can skip this step. However, if you want to prevent too much spreading and achieve a thicker cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
• Don’t overbake: These cookies are best when they’re soft and chewy, so be careful not to overbake them. Take them out of the oven as soon as the edges are golden.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with milk: Ranger Cookies are the perfect companion for a cold glass of milk—whether you prefer regular, almond, or oat milk.
• Add to a dessert platter: These cookies are great for cookie exchanges, holiday platters, or any occasion where you need a crowd-pleasing treat.
• Pack for lunchboxes: They’re sturdy and travel well, making them an excellent option for school lunches or picnic treats.

Conclusion: A Classic Cookie with a Timeless Appeal

Ranger Cookies are a delightful, chewy treat that combines the best of sweet coconut, hearty oats, and rich chocolate chips. They’re versatile, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet, these cookies are sure to satisfy your craving for comfort food with every bite.

So, the next time you’re looking to bake something a little different—something with a touch of nostalgia and a lot of flavor—whip up a batch of Ranger Cookies. They’re sure to become a new favorite in your cookie repertoire!