How to Make Cowboy Bread: A Classic Western Treat

This Cowboy bread recipe will make a delightful treat to have as an after-school snack or treat for a coffee break.

cowboy bread on a plate with fork and strawberries.

This bread is best known in the Midwest and was apparently served at school cafeterias in the 90’s.

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Cowboy bread is very similar to coffee cake, in flavor only better. It is light and fluffy; it has a delicious sweetness from the brown sugar and has a buttery crumb that is so dang good. It is not dry at all thanks to the buttermilk. Give this recipe a try you will be glad you did!

Whip up this simple cowboy bread recipe using pantry staples in under an hour for a delicious, cake that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert!

What is Cowboy Bread

Cowboy Bread is a delicious coffee cake. Prepare it in under an hour for a treat perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or desserts!

This recipe brings that nostalgic charm right into your kitchen. With a blend of rich flavors from brown sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon, this bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Let’s saddle up and get baking!

This is not Pan de Campo bread

Many people get this bread confused with Pan de Campo – also known as (Cowboy Bread). Pan de Campo is more like a biscuit baked in a pan like cornbread. Texas cowboys would mix together pan de campo bread and fry it in a cast iron pan over the fire. I can imagine cowboys around a campfire, savoring the warm freshly baked bread. I’m sure you could cook this bread over the fire the same way, but this is a cake and not bread.

Cowboy Bread Recipe

Ingredients

2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups light brown sugar
2/3 cup shortening
1/4 cup butter, cold
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, Mix well until all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the bread’s tender, crumbly texture.
Reserve 3/4 cup of crumbs for topping.
To the dry ingredients add salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and buttermilk together until well combined. The buttermilk adds a tangy richness to the bread that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring just until moistened. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.

Pour and Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring that the batter reaches all corners of the dish.
Sprinkle the reserved crumbs over the top.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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Ingredients

2 1/2 cups flour
2 cups light brown sugar
1 cup butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Make the crumble mixture

In a large bowl, mix the flour, and brown sugar
Mix in butter with fork, pastry cutter (or clean hands) until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Reserve part of the crumble mixture

Reserve 3/4 cup of the crumble mixture and set aside.
Then stir the nutmeg, cinnamon, baking soda and baking powder into the remaining flour mixture.

Add the wet ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. Add to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
Transfer the batter to a greased 9×9-in. baking pan. Spread into an even layer, then top with the reserved crumble mixture.

Bake

Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 30-40 minutes until golden. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center of the bread.
Let cool completely, then remove and slice into squares.

Tips for the Best Cowboy Bread

Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh nutmeg and cinnamon. Ground spices lose their potency over time, so make sure yours are fresh.
You can make your own buttermilk to do that mix 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar into 1 cup of milk.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Add Some Crunch: For a little extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter.

How to Store Cowboy Bread

Keep your cowboy bread fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. Enjoy it as is or heat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

You can also freeze this bread for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion to Cowboy Bread Recipe

Cowboy bread is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family breakfast, a snack around the campfire, or a sweet treat to share with friends. Its rich, spiced flavor and tender crumb make it a comforting classic that will transport you straight to the heart of the Wild West with every bite.

Enjoy your cowboy bread with a steaming cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk, and savor the simple pleasures of this timeless recipe.

Happy baking!

If you enjoyed this cowboy bread recipe please come back and leave a comment I would love to hear what you think!