Dad'S Favorite Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Dad's Favorite Cookies are classic, buttery treats packed with rich flavor, chewy oats, and optional coconut for added texture. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting snack, these cookies are simple to make and loved by all age groups for their nostalgic appeal and delightful taste.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter or shortening
  • 2 1/2 cups brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 cups sifted flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup quick cooking rolled oats
  • 2 cups flaked coconut (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine butter or shortening and brown sugar and beat well.
  2. Add eggs and vanilla and beat again.
  3. Combine sifted flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then add to the mixture.
  4. Mix until combined, then add oats and coconut if desired.
  5. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake in a 375°F oven for approximately 10 to 12 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the butter with applesauce. You can also try using melted coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the flaked coconut. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. For an indulgent dessert, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serving them with a slice of Cherry Shortcake. They are also great for holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to lunch boxes.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them by placing layers of cookies between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, where they will last for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Dad'S Favorite Cookies contains roughly 217 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

217 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.4g 5% DV
Total Fat 4.9g 6% DV
Carbs 27.1g 10% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 3.4g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 487.8mg 21% DV
Potassium 195.9mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 51.9mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 96.4mg 7% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of sifted flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour without sifting, but sifting helps to aerate the flour and can lead to a lighter texture. If you don't have a sifter, simply fluff the flour with a fork before measuring to avoid dense cookies.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

If you don't have brown sugar, you can make a substitute by mixing white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses for each cup of brown sugar needed. This will mimic the moisture and flavor profile of brown sugar, ensuring your cookies remain delicious.

Can I omit the coconut if I don't like it?

Absolutely! The coconut is optional, and the cookies will still turn out delicious without it. You could also substitute with chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor, making them customizable to your taste.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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