Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Cookies are a big part of Christmas in my family—and I don't just mean decorated sugar cookies. Cowboy cookies have been a part of my family for almost as long as I can remember. Adapted from a cookbook created by a civic organization in my hometown, cowboy cookies are a family favorite that can make an appearance year-round but often make their way into the Christmas must-bake list.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter

• 1/2 cup Crisco

• 1 cup white sugar

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 2 cups sifted flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups oatmeal

• 1 package (6 oz) package of chocolate chips (I'll be honest: I don't usually measure chocolate chips and often add a whole 12 oz. bag)

• 1/2 package butterscotch chips (usually around 6 ounces, but measure with your heart!)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Cream together butter, Crisco, white sugar and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.

3. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well.

4. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Stir into butter mixture.

5. Stir in oatmeal, chocolate chips and butterscotch chips.

6. Drop by rounded spoonful on baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, until edges are set and tops are beginning to brown. Cool for 10 minutes then move to cooking rack.

7. Package in cute treat boxes or bags and give to your friends and neighbors!