Cowboy Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
4. Add the Fun Mix-ins:

Stir in the oats, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using). Optionally, add the M&Ms for extra color and crunch. The dough will be thick and a little sticky.
5. Scoop the Dough:

Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press the dough balls down slightly to flatten them.
6. Bake the Cookies:

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don't overbake.
7. Cool and Serve:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delightful treats with a cold glass of milk!
Serving and Storage Tips