Homemade Girl Scout Samoas

If you’re anything like me, the sight of a box of Girl Scout Samoas brings back a flood of childhood memories. Those delightful cookies, with their perfectly toasted coconut, rich caramel, and decadent chocolate coating, are a true treat that many of us look forward to each year. But what if I told you that you could recreate these scrumptious cookies right in your own kitchen? This Homemade Girl Scout Samoas recipe will not only satisfy your cravings but also allow you to share the joy of baking with friends and family.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Homemade Girl Scout Samoas recipe stands out for its authenticity. We use simple ingredients that are usually found in your pantry, making these cookies accessible for everyone. The combination of buttery shortbread, sweet coconut, and rich caramel, all wrapped in a luscious layer of dark chocolate, makes each bite an experience to remember. Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about making these beloved cookies from scratch.

Shopping List

To make this delightful treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons half and half
• 1 (14-ounce) bag shredded sweetened coconut flakes
• 3 (10-ounce) bags caramels
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup dark chocolate melting wafers
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or shortening

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start baking, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Baking sheet – to bake your cookies.
• Parchment paper – for easy cleanup and non-stick baking.
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate.
• Cookie cutter – preferably round with a smaller cutter for the center.

Directions: Homemade Girl Scout Samoas

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and half and half until combined.

Step 2: Combine and Shape

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles, and then use a smaller cutter to create a hole in the center of each cookie.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Toast the Coconut

While the cookies are cooling, spread the shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure an even golden color. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 5: Make the Caramel Topping

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the caramels and evaporated milk. Stir until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and fold in the toasted coconut.

Step 6: Assemble the Cookies

Using a spoon, drop a generous amount of the caramel-coconut mixture onto each cookie, spreading it evenly. Allow the cookies to set while you prepare the chocolate.

Step 7: Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate melting wafers along with the vegetable oil or shortening. Stir until smooth and fully melted.

Step 8: Dip and Drizzle

Dip the bottom of each cookie into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the cookies on a wire rack to let the excess chocolate drip off. Once set, use a fork to drizzle chocolate over the caramel topping for that signature look.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up this Homemade Girl Scout Samoas recipe, consider the following adjustments:

• Use a reduced-fat butter or a plant-based substitute.
• Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough slightly.
• Opt for a sugar-free caramel option if available.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

To ensure your Homemade Girl Scout Samoas turn out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Not chilling the cookie dough: If the dough is too soft, it may spread too much while baking. Chill for 30 minutes before rolling out.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should be lightly golden, not brown.
• Burning the coconut: Toasting coconut can go from perfect to burnt in seconds, so stir frequently and watch closely.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To keep your Homemade Girl Scout Samoas fresh:

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• To freeze, place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Reheat frozen cookies in a microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness, or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a delightful treat.

FAQ

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, but you may want to add a bit more sugar to the caramel mixture to compensate for the lack of sweetness.

What can I do if I don’t have a cookie cutter?

You can use the rim of a glass or a sharp knife to cut the dough into your desired shape.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever chocolate you prefer for drizzling or dipping.

How do I make my cookies more caramel-y?

Simply add more caramel to the tops of the cookies before the chocolate drizzle. You can also make a thicker caramel by reducing it over low heat.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed this Homemade Girl Scout Samoas recipe, you might also like:

• Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark – A sweet and salty treat that you won’t be able to resist!
• Chocolate Dipped Oatmeal Cream Pies – Soft and chewy, these cookies are filled with nostalgic flavors.
• Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies – Perfect for the holidays or as a year-round indulgence.

Next Steps

Now that you have this delightful Homemade Girl Scout Samoas recipe in your arsenal, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Gather your ingredients, invite a friend over, and enjoy the process of creating these irresistible cookies from scratch. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they are sure to impress. Happy baking!

Share on Pinterest