Grandma’s Ranger Cookies: A Nostalgic, Versatile Treat

There’s a certain magic in a recipe that carries more than just ingredients it carries memories. This is one of those treasured recipes. Grandma’s Ranger Cookies are more than a simple dessert; they’re a delicious piece of history, a wonderfully textured, and fantastically adaptable treat that has earned its place in family cookbooks for generations.

Imagine a cookie that’s both crisp and chewy, loaded with toasted coconut, hearty oats, and the surprising, delightful crunch of cornflakes. These Grandma’s Ranger Cookies are a symphony of texture and flavor, and their true beauty lies in their incredible versatility. They are a blank canvas for your pantry, a nostalgic trip you can customize. Let’s bake a batch of warmth and memory.

WHY GRANDMA’S RANGER COOKIES ARE A TIMELESS CLASSIC

This recipe for Grandma’s Ranger Cookies stands the test of time for so many reasons. 

• First, the texture is truly unmatched the cornflakes provide an unforgettable lightness and crispness you won’t find in any other cookie. 
• Second, they are the ultimate “kitchen sink” cookie, lovingly accepting substitutions and additions based on what you have on hand. 
• Finally, they possess a humble, old-fashioned charm that feels both comforting and special, making every bite a nostalgic treat.

These iconic Grandma’s Ranger Cookies deliver consistent, crowd-pleasing results every single time.

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GATHERING YOUR INGREDIENTS FOR RANGER COOKIES

The beauty of these Grandma’s Ranger Cookies is in their simple, wholesome components. Here’s what you’ll need for this classic, versatile treat:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Signature Mix-Ins:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 cups cornflakes cereal, lightly crushed
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup of your choice: raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts

HOW TO MAKE GRANDMA’S RANGER COOKIES: STEP-BY-STEP

You can follow these simple steps to create a perfect batch of Grandma’s Ranger Cookies, a nostalgic treat.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until light and fluffy. This step creates the perfect base texture for your Ranger Cookies.

2. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.

4. Fold in the Goodness.
Using a sturdy spatula, gently fold in the rolled oats, crushed cornflakes, shredded coconut, and your chosen addition. The dough for your Ranger Cookies will be thick and packed with texture.

5. Scoop and Bake.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough about 2 inches apart onto the sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

6. Cool and Enjoy.
Allow the Grandma’s Ranger Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

TIPS FOR THE BEST RANGER COOKIES

Achieving the perfect batch of Grandma’s Ranger Cookies is easy with these pro tips. Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix only until it disappears. Overmixing leads to tough cookies. Crush Gently: Lightly crush the cornflakes with your hands to maintain varied pieces for maximum crunch in your Ranger Cookies. Chill for Control: If the dough seems too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes will prevent excessive spreading.

THE ULTIMATE VERSATILE TREAT: RANGER COOKIE VARIATIONS

This is where Grandma’s Ranger Cookies truly shine as a versatile treat. Feel free to create your own family version of these Ranger Cookies:

• Classic Ranger Cookies: Use 1 cup of raisins.
• Chocolate Lover’s Ranger Cookies: Swap raisins for 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Tropical Twist Ranger Cookies: Use macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
• Double Coconut Ranger Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon of coconut extract with the vanilla.
• Everything Ranger Cookies: Use a mix of chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and pecans.

STORING YOUR BATCH OF RANGER COOKIES

Store these Grandma’s Ranger Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Place cooled Ranger Cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

A PERSONAL NOTE: MORE THAN A COOKIE

In my grandma’s kitchen, this recipe for Ranger Cookies was made by feel, the ingredients adjusted by what was on hand. For me, the scent of oats and toasting coconut is a direct line back to her. Baking these Grandma’s Ranger Cookies is my way of keeping that connection alive, and I hope they become a part of your story, too.

RANGER COOKIES FAQ