Homemade Samoas Cookies Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Samoas Cookies are a great way to enjoy your favorite Girl Scout treat without having to wait for cookie season. The buttery shortbread provides a perfect base for the caramel and toasted coconut, and the chocolate drizzle adds an indulgent finishing touch. These cookies are a crowd-pleaser and are easy to make, making them perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

For the shortbread base:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the caramel and coconut topping:

• 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 1/2 cups caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the chocolate drizzle:

• 4 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for smoother drizzle)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the shortbread base:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

• In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or a whisk until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

• Add the vanilla extract and salt, and mix until combined.

• Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

• Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.

• Use a smaller round cutter or the end of a piping tip to cut out a hole in the center of each cookie, creating the signature ring shape of a Samoa.

• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

2. Toast the coconut:

• While the cookies are baking, toast the shredded coconut. Place it in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir constantly for 3-5 minutes until the coconut is golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.

3. Prepare the caramel topping:

• In a small saucepan, heat the caramel sauce over low heat. Add the heavy cream and salt, stirring until smooth and combined. The cream will make the caramel a little softer and easier to spread. Let it cool slightly.

• Once the caramel has cooled slightly, mix in the toasted coconut until it’s evenly coated.

4. Assemble the cookies:

• Spread a thin layer of caramel-coconut mixture over each shortbread cookie, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

• Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them for about 20-30 minutes to help the caramel set.

5. Drizzle with chocolate:

• In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. If you want a smoother chocolate drizzle, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate.

• Dip the bottoms of each cookie into the melted chocolate or use a spoon to drizzle the chocolate over the tops of the cookies. You can drizzle in a zigzag pattern for a fun look.

• Place the cookies back on the parchment paper and refrigerate again for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.

6. Serve and enjoy:

• Once the chocolate is set, your homemade Samoas are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 18-20 cookies

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)

• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes (for the shortbread)

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling and chilling)

Variations

• Peanut Butter Samoas: Add a drizzle of peanut butter alongside the chocolate drizzle for a sweet and salty twist.

• Coconut-Almond Samoas: Mix in some chopped toasted almonds with the toasted coconut for a delicious crunch.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. The flavor and texture will still be fantastic.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Samoa cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also refrigerate them to keep the chocolate firm.

• Freezing: You can freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel sauce for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade caramel sauce! Just ensure that it’s thick enough to hold up on the cookies. If it’s too runny, you can simmer it for a few minutes to thicken it before spreading it on the cookies.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, these cookies can be made ahead of time. Once assembled, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well, so you can make a batch in advance and enjoy them later.

Can I make these without the chocolate drizzle?

While the chocolate drizzle is part of what makes these cookies a Samoa, you can skip it if you prefer. The cookies will still be delicious, but they might not have the same signature look or taste.

How do I keep the caramel from melting?

If you’re worried about the caramel melting, refrigerate the cookies after you add the caramel layer. This helps set the caramel and ensures it doesn’t slide off the cookies when served.

Conclusion

Homemade Samoas Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the irresistible flavors of coconut, caramel, and chocolate. These cookies are just as delicious as the iconic Girl Scout version, and making them at home allows you to enjoy them anytime. With a buttery shortbread base, a gooey caramel-coconut topping, and a chocolate drizzle, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for gifting, holidays, or just a special treat, Homemade Samoas are guaranteed to be a hit!

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