Ranger Cookies

Ranger Cookies are a delightful and hearty treat, packed with a mix of textures and flavors that make them truly irresistible. These cookies are a nostalgic favorite, often described as a cross between a chocolate chip cookie and an oatmeal cookie, but with added goodies like coconut, nuts, and sometimes even cereal. The combination of crispy edges and chewy centers, along with the rich blend of ingredients, makes Ranger Cookies a perfect snack for any time of day. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk or as a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
5. Add the Mix-Ins: Stir in the oats, shredded coconut, crispy rice cereal, chocolate chips, and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Shape the Cookies: Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ranger Cookies are a deliciously satisfying treat, combining the best of several cookie favorites into one chewy, crunchy, and flavorful bite. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a comforting snack!