Homemade Samoa Cookies (1 Hr, 27 Mins)

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Samoa cookies are a beloved classic, and these homemade versions capture all the deliciousness of the original Girl Scout treat.

With a buttery shortbread base, topped with chewy caramel, toasted coconut, and a drizzle of chocolate, these cookies are an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

While they require a bit of effort, the result is more than worth it.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying them for the first time, these homemade Samoa cookies are sure to be a hit!

 

Ingredients

Units Scale
For the shortbread base:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed)
For the caramel coconut topping:
  • 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • 12 ounces soft caramels (such as Kraft)
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the chocolate drizzle and coating:
  • 10 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheets (5 minutes):
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Make the shortbread base (10 minutes):
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Add the flour, baking powder, and salt, and mix on low speed until the dough comes together. If the dough is too crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk, one at a time, until the dough holds together.
    • Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Shape and bake the cookies (20 minutes):
    • Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
    • Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles of dough. Then, use a smaller cutter (about 1/2-inch) to cut out the center of each cookie, creating a donut shape.
    • Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
    • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
  4. Toast the coconut (5 minutes):
    • Spread the shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
    • Remove from the oven and let cool.
  5. Make the caramel coconut topping (10 minutes):
    • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels, milk, and salt. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is melted and smooth.
    • Stir in the toasted coconut until well combined.
  6. Assemble the cookies (15 minutes):
    • Spread a layer of the caramel coconut mixture over the top of each shortbread cookie, pressing gently to adhere. Let the cookies set for a few minutes.
    • Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
  7. Dip and drizzle the cookies (10 minutes):
    • Dip the bottom of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
    • Use a fork or a piping bag to drizzle the remaining chocolate over the top of the cookies in a zigzag pattern.
  8. Cool and serve (15 minutes):
    • Allow the cookies to cool completely, letting the chocolate set before serving. You can place the cookies in the refrigerator for a few minutes to speed up the process.

Notes

These homemade Samoa cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

For an even more authentic taste, you can use dark chocolate to mimic the classic Girl Scout flavor.

Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging on your own, these cookies are a nostalgic treat that will bring smiles to anyone who tries them.

Enjoy making and savoring every bite of these delicious, homemade delights!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/homemade-samoa-cookies-1-hr-27-mins/