Crackerjack Cookies

This is one of my all time favorite cookie recipes. You might think that the name refers to Crackerjack caramel popcorn, but no. The name comes from an old expression, meaning GREAT. As in, "You're doing a crackerjack job!" My sister, Patty, first brought them to my attention and now they're permanently on my list of favorite cookies. You MUST try them! Like, right now!


1 cup butter
1 cup white sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 pinch salt
2 cups quick cooking oats
1 1/2 cups flaked coconut
2 cups crisp rice cereal


Preheat oven to 350F.
In a medium bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar and brown sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt, stir into the creamed mixture. Gently stir in the oatmeal, coconut, and rice cereal.
Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from cookie sheets to cool on wire racks.

Tips:
It seems to me that you either love coconut or you're not a fan at all. For me, this recipe needs the coconut, so I wouldn't omit it. My friend, Michael, is not a fan of coconut and LOVED these cookies. So give them a try!
Oh, and for those of you who've asked about adding chocolate chips, I wouldn't. Yes, you certainly can, but I find that they overpower the rest of the flavors.