Creating Laura Bush’s Cowboy Cookies is simple and rewarding. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Add Oats and Chocolate: Fold in the old-fashioned oats, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

By following these straightforward steps, you will create a batch of delicious Cowboy Cookies that are sure to impress!