YaYa’s Ranger Cookies
Ranger Cookies are a wonderful old-fashioned treat that combine the sweetness of sugar with the crunch of cornflakes, the chew of oats, and the richness of coconut. To make sure they turn out soft in the middle with just the right crisp edges, be sure to cream the shortening and sugars until fluffy before adding your eggs. Mixing the dry ingredients separately first helps the soda, baking powder, and salt distribute evenly, giving you a better rise.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups cornflakes
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, cream together shortening, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients.
- Fold in cornflakes, rolled oats, and coconut until evenly distributed.
- Drop dough by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Yaya’s Tips for Success
Ranger Cookies are a wonderful old-fashioned treat that combine the sweetness of sugar with the crunch of cornflakes, the chew of oats, and the richness of coconut. To make sure they turn out soft in the middle with just the right crisp edges, be sure to cream the shortening and sugars until fluffy before adding your eggs. Mixing the dry ingredients separately first helps the soda, baking powder, and salt distribute evenly, giving you a better rise.
- Always use fresh baking soda and baking powder for the best texture.
- Do not overmix after adding flour to keep the cookies tender.
- For more crunch, lightly crush the cornflakes before folding them in.
- Grease your baking sheet lightly or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Let cookies rest on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a rack.
Yaya’s Customization Ideas
These cookies are a perfect base for adding your own flavors.
- A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts will add nuttiness, while chocolate chips make them irresistible for children and grandchildren alike.
- If you love dried fruit, raisins or cranberries blend well with the coconut and oats.
- For a more delicate flavor, you can substitute butter for half of the shortening.
These cookies remind me of our other hearty favorites like Oatmeal Cookies or even Peanut Butter Balls for a sweet and chewy bite.
Yaya’s Original Recipe Card
