These aren’t just any cookies, they’re Dad’s Cookies – a recipe passed down through generations in our family. My grandma, of blessed memory, used to bake these for us, and the aroma of golden brown, oatmeal-studded goodness filling the kitchen is a memory I treasure. Every time the rich aroma of butter, vanilla, and toasted oats filled the kitchen, we knew a batch of Dad’s Cookies was imminent. Watching her weathered hands measure out the ingredients with practiced ease, the gentle rhythm of her mixing spoon against the bowl – these are the small moments that became my most treasured memories. The finished cookies, a warm, golden brown dotted with plump pockets of oats, were a reward eagerly awaited by all.

The beauty of Dad’s Cookies lies in their simplicity. Packed with wholesome rolled oats, coconut, and just a hint of sweetness from the vanilla and brown sugar, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. The slightly uneven, crinkled surface speaks to their homemade charm, a far cry from the uniformity of store-bought cookies. Each bite is a burst of nostalgia, a reminder of family gatherings and the warmth of my grandma’s kitchen. Sharing them now carries on that tradition, bringing a taste of our family history to everyone who enjoys them.

Dad’s Cookies may be simple, but the ingredients that go into them each play a vital role in creating their signature flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what makes these cookies so special:

• Brown Sugar: This adds a deeper, richer sweetness compared to white sugar alone. The molasses content in brown sugar also contributes a hint of caramel flavor.
• Lard & Butter: This combination provides a delightful textural contrast. Lard offers a flaky, slightly crumbly texture, while butter adds richness and creaminess.
• Egg: This acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together and contributing to the chewy texture of the cookies.
• Flour: The foundation of the cookie structure. All-purpose flour provides the right balance of strength and tenderness.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents work together to create lift and ensure the cookies rise nicely in the oven.
• Salt: A small amount of salt enhances all the other flavors in the cookie.
• Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: This adds a delightful textural element with a subtle sweetness and a touch of tropical flair.
• Fine Rolled Oats: The star of the show! Rolled oats provide a satisfying chew, nutty flavor, and heartiness to the cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.

Just like the memories they evoke, Dad’s Cookies are meant to be shared and enjoyed. But fear not, if you find yourself with a surplus of these delicious treats, here’s how to store them for maximum freshness:

• Cooling Completely: Let your freshly baked cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents them from becoming soggy or losing their crisp edges.
• Airtight Container: Choose an airtight container, preferably one made of metal or glass. This will prevent the cookies from drying out or absorbing any unwanted flavors.
• Room Temperature Storage: For short-term storage (up to 3 days), Dad’s Cookies can be stored at room temperature in your cool, dry pantry.
• Fridge for Extended Storage: For longer storage (up to a week), consider storing the cookies in the refrigerator. The cooler temperature will slow down the staling process. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
• Freezing for Long-Term Preservation: Want to enjoy Dad’s Cookies well into the future? They freeze beautifully! Let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly stored, Dad’s Cookies can last for several months in the freezer.

Q: Can I substitute the lard for butter?

A: While the combination of lard and butter creates a unique texture, you can certainly substitute butter entirely. However, keep in mind that the cookies might lose some of their flakiness. We recommend using unsalted butter and adding an extra ¼ cup (56g) compared to the combined amount of lard and butter in the recipe.

Q: My cookies are spreading too much. What can I do?

A: A couple of things could be at play here. First, ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. Expired leavening agents can cause excessive spreading. Secondly, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape.

Q: My cookies are too soft. How can I make them crispier?

A: A few tweaks can help achieve a crispier texture. Make sure you don’t overmix the dough, as this can activate the gluten and lead to a softer cookie. Additionally, baking the cookies for a minute or two longer can help achieve a crispier edge.

Q: I don’t like coconut. Can I omit it?

A: Absolutely! Dad’s Cookies are delicious even without the coconut. You can simply omit it from the recipe, or replace it with an equal amount of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.

Q: How can I tell when the cookies are done?

A: Dad’s Cookies should be golden brown around the edges with slightly lighter centers. The centers may still appear soft when you take them out of the oven, but they will firm up as they cool on a wire rack.

Q: What are some other ideas I can add to this recipe?

A: Here are a few ideas…

Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm flavor twist.

Chocolate chip delight: Fold in ½ cup (100g) of semisweet chocolate chips for a classic combination.

Fruity twist: Add ½ cup (100g) of dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried fruit for a burst of sweetness and texture.