Here’s a classic old-fashioned Washboard Cookies recipe — chewy, buttery, lightly spiced cookies that were popular in the early–mid 1900s. They get their name from the fork-pressed ridges on top that look like an old washboard.

These are cozy, nostalgic, and perfect with a glass of milk or coffee.

🍪 Washboard Cookies (Old-Fashioned Recipe)

⭐ Ingredients (makes about 2–3 dozen)

½ cup butter (softened)
½ cup shortening (or use all butter, but shortening gives old-fashioned texture)
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup shredded coconut (classic addition)
Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon (adds warmth!)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven

Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Cream butter, shortening & sugars

Beat butter, shortening, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add eggs & vanilla

Mix in eggs one at a time.
Stir in vanilla extract.

4. Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl whisk together:

Flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Cinnamon (if using)

Add dry mixture to wet, mixing just until combined.

5. Add coconut

Fold in shredded coconut.
(This gives the cookies their classic chewy texture.)

6. Shape cookies

Scoop dough into 1-inch balls.
Place on baking sheets.
Use a fork dipped in cold water to press each cookie twice in one direction to form ridges (like a washboard).

7. Bake

Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Cool on racks.

⭐ Tips & Variations

Extra buttery: Replace shortening with butter — cookies will be flatter & crispier.
Golden, chewy interior: Remove from oven when edges are golden but centers look soft.
Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup oats
- ½ cup butterscotch chips
Vintage texture: Use shortening + brown sugar for the traditional soft-chewy center.

Would you like a crispy version, a spiced holiday version, or a modern coconut-free version of washboard cookies?