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.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: Assemble the cowboy bread
Transfer the batter to a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Spread into an even layer, then top with the reserved crumble mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in a preheated 375°F oven until golden, 30 to 40 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center of the bread.
Step 6: Cool and serve
Let cool completely, then remove and slice into squares.
Recipe Variations
- Use butter or coconut oil instead of shortening: If you don’t keep shortening stocked in your pantry, swap for an equal amount of butter or coconut oil. Both will yield cowboy bread with a moist and tender texture.
- Add extra baking spices: Adjust the spices to suit your tastes. Go for extra cinnamon, omit the nutmeg, add a dash of cloves or even a teaspoon or two of the best vanilla extract. We love how versatile this easy cowboy bread is.
How to Store Cowboy Bread
Cowboy bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to four days. Serve at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.
Can you freeze cowboy bread?
Yes, you can freeze cowboy bread for up to three months. Once the bread has cooled to room temperature, wrap it tightly in a layer of storage wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Defrost the cowboy bread overnight in the refrigerator and then let it come to room temperature before serving.
Cowboy Bread Tips
Can I bake cowboy bread in a different pan?
Yes, you can bake cowboy bread in a different pan. We baked ours in a 9×9-inch square pan to get tall slices of fluffy cowboy bread. If you would like thinner slices, this recipe can also be baked in a 13×9-inch pan. Just mind the baking time since it will likely bake faster.
The top is getting too brown, but the center is baked through. What should I do?
This cowboy bread browns fast due to its high sugar content. If you feel like the top is getting too dark, tent it with aluminum foil after about 25 minutes.
