Growing up, my grandma’s kitchen was always filled with the smell of cookies. Her famous Ranger cookies were a comfort and joy. The mix of oats, coconut, and crispy rice cereal makes them irresistible.
These classic cookies are easy to make and always a hit. They bring back happy memories of simpler times.
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Key Takeaways
- Ranger cookies feature a unique mix of textures from oats, coconut, and crispy rice cereal.
- The recipe calls for 2 cups of all-purpose flour and shortening or butter to create the perfect cookie base.
- Bake the cookies at 350°F for 7 to 9 minutes until golden brown and set at the edges.
- Customize the cookies by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, candies, or dried fruits.
- Ranger cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 7 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
What Are Ranger Cookies?
Ranger cookies, also known as Amish ranger cookies or oatmeal coconut cookies, are a beloved classic. They have a mix of oats, coconut, and crispy rice cereal. This mix gives them a unique texture and taste. For years, these cookies have been a favorite in community cookbooks and homes.
Definition and Origin
The Ranger Cookies recipe started in the 1930s in Texas. It combines sweetened coconut flakes, oats, and cereal like cornflakes or Rice Krispies. The recipe also includes butter, eggs, sugar, brown sugar, walnuts, and butterscotch or chocolate chips. Each cookie has about 118 calories, with 16g of carbs, 2g of protein, and 5g of fat.
“Ranger cookies are a classic homemade treat that have been bringing joy to bakers for generations. With their unique blend of oats, coconut, and crunchy cereal, these cookies offer a delightful texture and flavor that is hard to resist.”
To bake, set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes. They should look light golden brown with slightly browned edges. The recipe makes up to 48 cookies, great for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients for Ranger Cookies
To bake a batch of classic ranger cookie recipe, you’ll need some basic pantry items. You’ll need shortening, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Also, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, old-fashioned oats, crispy rice cereal, and shredded coconut.
The shortening makes the cookies soft and tender. The sugars and eggs help them become light and fluffy. The oats, cereal, and coconut add fun textures and flavors in every bite.
Here’s what you need to make homemade ranger cookies:
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 cup shredded coconut
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make delicious ranger cookies that everyone will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making ranger cookies is easy and fun. You’ll get soft, chewy, and tasty cookies. Follow these steps to make the best how to make ranger cookies batch.
Creaming the Shortening and Sugars
First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a big bowl, mix the butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step adds air to the dough, making the cookies soft and nice.
Adding Dry Ingredients
Then, add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt slowly to the mix. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix to avoid tough cookies. After that, mix in the old-fashioned oats, cornflake cereal, and shredded sweetened coconut for the perfect baking ranger cookies dough.
Scooping and Baking
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough on parchment-lined baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 16-20 minutes, or until they’re golden and set. Let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool fully.
By following these easy steps, you’ll make delicious ranger cookies to share with loved ones. Enjoy the making and the yummy results!
ranger cookies recipe Variations
The classic ranger cookie recipe is a favorite, but it can be made in many ways. You can add sweetness, crunch, or unique flavors. There’s a ranger cookie variation for every taste.
Mix-in Ideas
Adding mix-ins can make ranger cookies even better. Here are some ideas:
- Chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white)
- Peanut butter chips
- Butterscotch chips
- Chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- Dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots)
- Shredded coconut
- M&M’s or other candy pieces
- Crispy rice cereal
Try different nut butters like almond or cashew butter for new flavors. The options are endless for making your ranger cookies special.
For the best ranger cookie variations, mix flavors and textures well. Each bite should be a burst of taste and texture. Have fun making new mix-ins and trying them out!
How to Store Ranger Cookies
After your ranger cookies cool down, you can store them for later. Place them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature. This keeps them delicate and chewy for up to 5 days.
To store them longer, freeze the cookies. Put them in a freezer-safe container or bag, sealing well to remove air. Frozen, they can last up to 3 months.
To defrost solidified treats, take off them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. This brings them back to life, ready to enjoy. With these tips, you can enjoy homemade ranger cookies for days or weeks.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature (airtight container) | Up to 5 days |
| Freezer (airtight container) | Up to 3 months |
Follow these easy storage tips to keep your ranger cookies fresh. They’ll stay flavorful and ready to satisfy your cravings for days or weeks.
Can You Freeze Ranger Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze ranger cookies for a long time. Freezing them is a smart way to enjoy them later. It’s perfect for saving treats for later or starting holiday baking early.
To freeze ranger cookies, let them cool down first. Then, put them in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove air before sealing to avoid freezer burn. This way, frozen ranger cookies stay good for up to 3 months.
When you want to eat your frozen ranger cookies, just thaw them at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and tasty, great for any time. Freezing ranger cookies means you can bake ahead and always have some ready.
If you have lots of ranger cookies or want to start holiday baking early, freeze them. With a bit of planning and the right freezing methods, you can enjoy frozen ranger cookies all year.
Tips for Perfect Ranger Cookies
To make sure your ranger cookies are perfect, remember a few key tips. Use a mix of butter and shortening for the best texture and taste. This mix makes the cookies soft, chewy, and super tasty.
Using Butter vs. Shortening
When baking ranger cookies, you can choose butter, shortening, or a mix. Butter adds a rich flavor, while shortening makes them softer. For the best cookies, mix 1/4 cup butter with 1/4 cup shortening. This balance is key for a great taste and texture.
Making Ranger Cookie Bars
Want a thicker, chewier cookie? Turn the dough into ranger cookie bars. Press the dough into a baking dish and bake for 20-22 minutes. This way, you get a dense, chewy bar perfect for squares. Always chill the dough to keep the cookies thick and soft.
By following these tips, you can make perfect ranger cookies every time. Whether you like the classic shape or the thicker bars, you’ll impress everyone. With the right ingredients and techniques, your ranger cookie baking tips will be a hit.
Quick and Easy ranger cookies recipe
Looking for a simple ranger cookies recipe? You’re in the right place! This homemade treat is easy to make and perfect for any cookie craving. With just a few ingredients and quick prep, you can make delicious easy ranger cookie recipe, simple ranger cookies, or no-fuss ranger cookies fast.
The secret to this quick and easy ranger cookies recipe is the one-bowl mixing. All ingredients mix seamlessly, making a dough ready to scoop and bake. In 7 to 9 minutes, you’ll have warm, chewy cookies with oats, coconut, and crispy cereal flavors.
This recipe is also great for making more. Double or triple the batch to share with family and friends. It’s perfect for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients for Easy Ranger Cookies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cornflakes cereal
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
Instructions for No-Fuss Ranger Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla and extricate until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
- Stir in the cornflakes, shredded coconut, old-fashioned oats, and chopped nuts.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the easy ranger cookie recipe for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still slightly soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these basic ranger cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite drink. The mix of oats, coconut, and crunchy cereal offers a delightful texture and flavor that will satisfy your cookie cravings.
Nutritional Information
Ranger cookies are a tasty and comforting treat. But, it’s key to know their nutritional facts. They have fixings like butter, sugar, and coconut that include calories. A single ranger cookie has about 144 calories, 7 grams of fat, 19 grams of carbs, and 2 grams of protein.
Remember, ranger cookies aren’t a health food. Yet, they can fit into a balanced diet if eaten in moderation. To make them healthier, try these tweaks:
- Use less sugar in the recipe
- Replace some butter with applesauce or mashed banana
- Add more fiber-rich oats
These changes let you enjoy ranger cookies while keeping calories and nutrition balanced.
“Ranger cookies are a delightful treat, but it’s important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.”
Kitchen Sink Ranger Cookies
For a more indulgent twist on ranger cookies, try “kitchen sink” ranger cookies. They’re loaded with chocolate chips, chopped pecans, raisins, and shredded coconut. Plus, they have oats and crispy cereal. The result is a cookie that’s thick, soft, and chewy, hitting all your cravings.
Ingredient Overview
To make kitchen sink ranger cookies, cream butter and sugars first. Then, mix in dry ingredients and various mix-ins. You can customize them endlessly, making your own ranger cookie variations.
Preparation and Baking
These cookies are a hit whenever you serve them. They’re ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for holidays or parties. As one Allrecipes user, Plexasaurus, noted, they’re soft, chewy, and full of flavor, loved by all.
Users like Kristi Monson and Kathy L Dix love ranger cookies with lots of mix-ins. They’re easy to make and taste amazing. You can add dried cranberries, English toffee bits, or more oats, showing how versatile kitchen sink ranger cookies are.
Looking for a delightful, indulgent cookie? Try kitchen sink ranger cookies. Their mix of flavors and textures will make them a family favorite.
Conclusion
Ranger cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves. They are simple to make and full of flavor. These oat-based cookies have chewy centers and crisp edges.
They mix coconut, cereal, and nuts for a unique taste. You can stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist. Ranger cookies are a hit in any household.
Follow the simple steps to make your own ranger cookies. You can try different flavors like vanilla or chocolate chip. Or, get creative with mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts.
These cookies are perfect for any occasion. They are great for baking with kids or enjoying as a sweet treat. Ranger cookies bring joy and happiness to everyone who tries them.
So, why not try making ranger cookies today? It’s a fun way to enjoy homemade baking. You’ll love the delicious aroma and taste of freshly baked cookies.
FAQ
What are ranger cookies?
Ranger cookies, also known as Amish ranger cookies or oatmeal coconut cookies, are a beloved dessert. They’ve been a favorite for decades. These cookies mix oats, coconut, and crispy rice cereal for a unique texture.
They are light and tender with a crisp edge and a chewy middle. This makes them a hit in community cookbooks.
What are the key ingredients in ranger cookies?
Ranger cookies need shortening, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. They also require all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, oats, crispy rice cereal, and shredded coconut. The shortening makes them soft, while sugars and eggs make them light and fluffy.
The oats, cereal, and coconut add texture and flavor. This mix makes each bite special.
How do you make ranger cookies?
First, cream the shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. This step is key for the right texture. Then, add the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and oats, mixing until just combined.
Finally, scoop the dough onto baking sheets and bake until golden brown. This ensures they are soft, chewy, and delicious.
Can you customize ranger cookies with different mix-ins?
Yes, you can customize ranger cookies to your liking. Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces. Mix-ins like M&M’s, peanut butter cups, raisins, cranberries, and cornflakes are popular.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts or chocolate chips to create your own unique recipe.
Can you freeze ranger cookies?
Yes, you can freeze ranger cookies for later. Let them cool completely first. Then, arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container or resealable bag.
Make beyond any doubt to evacuate as much discuss as conceivable sometime recently fixing. They can be solidified for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
What are some tips for making perfect ranger cookies?
For perfect ranger cookies, use a mix of butter and shortening. This gives you tender texture and buttery flavor. You can also make ranger cookie bars by pressing the dough into a baking dish and baking for 20-22 minutes.
This method makes a thicker, chewier treat. Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining their soft and chewy texture.
What is the nutritional information for ranger cookies?
Ranger cookies are a tasty treat but contain higher-calorie ingredients like butter, sugar, and coconut. A single cookie has about 144 calories, 7 grams of fat, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein.
While they’re not a health food, they can be part of a balanced diet. To make them healthier, use less sugar, substitute butter with applesauce or mashed banana, or add extra oats.
What is a “kitchen sink” ranger cookie?
“Kitchen sink” ranger cookies are a decadent version of the classic. They include chocolate chips, chopped pecans, raisins, and shredded coconut, along with oats and crispy cereal. The result is a cookie that satisfies all cravings – salty, sweet, crunchy, and gooey.
To make them, cream the butter and sugars, then fold in the dry ingredients and mix-ins before baking. These cookies are sure to be a hit whenever you serve them.