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Stuffed Samoa Cookies – A Decadent Twist on a Beloved Classic
Introduction
Inspired by the iconic Girl Scout Samoa cookie, these Stuffed Samoa Cookies are buttery, chewy, and irresistibly gooey on the inside. With toasted coconut, melty chocolate, and gooey caramel all tucked into a soft cookie shell, they bring nostalgic flavors and indulgent texture to the next level. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, gifting, or indulging yourself, these are more than just cookies—they’re a dessert experience.
History of Samoa Cookies
Samoa cookies were first introduced by the Girl Scouts in 1975 and have remained one of the top-selling cookies, only rivaled by Thin Mints. Also known as “Caramel deLites” in some regions, these cookies combine a crisp shortbread base with a coating of caramel and toasted coconut, drizzled with chocolate. Over time, home bakers began creating Samoa-inspired treats, including bars, cakes, and now, stuffed cookies.
Health Benefits (in Moderation!)
While these cookies are definitely a treat, they do contain:
- Coconut, rich in fiber and healthy fats.
- Dark chocolate, a source of antioxidants.
- Homemade elements, giving you control over quality and preservatives.
Balance is key—enjoying one or two with mindfulness can be a sweet mental health boost!
Ingredients (Makes 16–20 large cookies)
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Filling & Topping
- 1½ cups shredded sweetened coconut, toasted
- 1 cup soft caramel candies or homemade caramel
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)
Method & Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Coconut
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread coconut on a baking sheet and toast for 5–8 minutes, stirring often. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Melt caramels with cream in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in the toasted coconut. Let it cool until scoopable.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
- Scoop out about 2 tbsp of cookie dough. Flatten slightly, add 1–1½ tsp of caramel-coconut mixture in the center, and top with another flattened scoop of dough.
- Seal edges completely and shape into a ball. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes, until edges are golden.
- Cool on pan 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Step 6: Finish with Chocolate
- Melt chocolate and drizzle or dip cookies as desired. Sprinkle with flaky salt while chocolate is still wet.
Formation & Storage
- Formed as oversized, bakery-style cookies with gooey, hidden centers.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temp or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Info (Per Cookie Estimate)
(Varies slightly based on size and ingredients)
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 16g
- Carbs: 34g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Lovers of This Recipe
- Chocoholics: That melty chocolate drizzle seals the deal.
- Caramel lovers: The gooey center makes this cookie dreamy.
- Cookie fans: A chewy outer shell with a soft center? Heaven.
- Homemade dessert fans: Perfect for bake sales, birthdays, or gifting.
- Girl Scout cookie lovers: A leveled-up Samoa you can enjoy year-round.
Conclusion
Stuffed Samoa Cookies aren’t just cookies—they’re an experience. With layers of texture, deep flavors, and a sweet nostalgic kick, these are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the classic Samoa. Perfect to bake, share, and fall in love with again and again.
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