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Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Samoas cookies are a delightful treat, combining the flavors of caramel, chocolate, and coconut. These cookies capture the essence of the beloved Girl Scout classic, bringing that chewy, tasty goodness directly to your home. Making them from scratch means you can control the ingredients and enjoy them fresh out of the oven. Plus, sharing these cookies with friends and family is bound to bring smiles and compliments!

How to Make Homemade Samoas Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
1 cup Sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in browning; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Creates structure for the cookie base; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
1 teaspoon Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
1 pinch Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; can omit if on a low-sodium diet.
1 tablespoon Milk: Binds the dough and adds moisture; any milk alternative can be used.
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract: Introduces warmth and depth of flavor; use almond extract for a twist.
3 cups Shredded Sweetened Coconut: Gives the classic Samoas texture and taste; swap for unsweetened coconut for a less sweet option.
14 ounces Soft Caramels: Forms the gooey topping; use homemade caramel or a jarred version for convenience.
1 tablespoon Whole Milk: Ensures caramel consistency; any milk can substitute.
8 ounces Dark Chocolate: Coats the cookie base for richness; milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter taste.

Directions:

Making the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until combined. Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly. Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Let them cool on a wire rack.
Caramel Topping: In a small saucepan, melt the soft caramels with 1 tablespoon of whole milk over low heat, stirring until smooth. Once the cookies cool, spread a generous layer of caramel over each cookie and then sprinkle with shredded coconut.
Chocolate Coating: Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler. Once melted, dip the cookie bottoms into the chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.

How to Serve Homemade Samoas Cookies

Serve your homemade Samoas cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat. They are also great for parties, gatherings, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. Arrange them on a decorative plate for a lovely presentation.

How to Store Homemade Samoas Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life, but be aware they may harden. To revive their chewy texture, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying.

Tips to Make Homemade Samoas Cookies

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Let the cookies cool completely before adding the caramel topping to prevent melting.
If the caramel is too sticky, add a little more milk to it while melting.
Use a fork to dip the cookies in chocolate for an even coat.

Variation

You can customize your Samoas by adding chopped nuts or using different types of chocolate. For a fun twist, try adding flavors like orange zest or espresso powder to the cookie dough.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cookies ahead of time and add the caramel and chocolate coating just before serving.
What if I don’t have shredded sweetened coconut?
You can use unsweetened coconut flakes or even finely chopped nuts as a substitute.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the uncoated cookies. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw and then add caramel and chocolate.