The moment I opened my pantry and caught sight of a bag of coconut flakes, inspiration struck. With a craving for something sweet and a dash of creativity, I decided to whip up a batch of homemade Samoas cookies. These delectable treats offer a heavenly combination of chewy coconut, rich caramel, and velvety dark chocolate that is hard to resist.
Picture this: the first bite reveals layers of flavor that dance on your taste buds, instantly transporting you to a place of pure bliss. Best of all, they whisk you away from the monotony of fast food and into a world where your kitchen transforms into a cozy bakery filled with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply indulging in a well-deserved treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s create these delightful bites that promise to impress!
Why You’ll Adore Samoas Cookies!
Decadent and irresistibly delicious, these Samoas cookies bring that classic flavor right into your home kitchen.
- Homemade Delight: Skip the store-bought versions and savor the freshness of made-from-scratch cookies that are genuinely special.
- Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or just a cozy night in, everyone will be clamoring for more!
- Easy Steps: With simple instructions and minimal prep time, these cookies are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of caramel, chocolate, and coconut offers a taste combination that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable Fun: Feel free to add your twist, whether it’s a sprinkle of sea salt or a dash of your favorite nuts in the mix.
Baking these Samoas cookies not only satisfies cravings but can also reignite your passion for homemade treats. Dive into this delightful recipe and experience the magic of baking yourself! For additional baking inspiration, check out our easy cookie recipes!
Samoas Cookies Ingredients
Discover everything you need to create these delightful treats!
For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted butter – ensures a rich flavor without added saltiness.
- Salt – just a pinch enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
- Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps achieve that perfect cookie texture.
- Powdered sugar – gives the cookies a softer, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Whole milk – provides moisture to the dough, ensuring a delightful chew.
- Vanilla extract – infuses a fragrant warmth that complements the cookies beautifully.
- All-purpose flour – the foundation for your dough, offering the right structure.
- Baking soda – helps the cookies rise and gives them a light texture.
For the Coconut Topping
- Shredded sweetened coconut flakes – the star ingredient that defines the Samoas cookies.
- Caramels – a gooey sweet layer that binds the coconut together; make sure to melt them well.
- Heavy cream – helps achieve the perfect smooth caramel consistency for coating.
For the Chocolate Coating
- Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers – a luxurious chocolate that melts like a dream.
- Oil – a bit added to the chocolate ensures a smooth and shiny finish.
Transform your kitchen into a sweet haven with these Samoas cookies!
How to Make Samoas Cookies
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Cream Together: In your stand mixer, combine the unsalted butter and salt. Beat on medium for 2-4 minutes until creamy and fluffy. This forms the perfect base for your cookie dough.
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Combine Ingredients: Add granulated sugar, powdered sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat again for 1-2 minutes until everything is well integrated and smooth.
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Mix in Flour: Gently add the all-purpose flour and baking soda at low speed. Mix until the dough just comes together—don’t overwork it!
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Prepare Dough: Shape the dough into a disk and place it on parchment paper. Roll it out to about ¼ inch thick between two sheets.
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Chill: Wrap it up and chill the rolled-out dough for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have time! This helps develop flavors and makes it easier to cut.
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Preheat Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures the cookies cook evenly.
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Toast Coconut: Spread the shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for approximately 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch closely to prevent burning!
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Cut Cookies: Use a 2-inch cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the dough. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 8-10 minutes until the edges just start to turn golden. Cool them on a wire rack.
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Melt Caramels: In a microwave-safe bowl, unwrap the caramels and add heavy cream. Microwave in short increments, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
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Combine Coconut and Caramel: Pour most of your melted caramel into the toasted coconut. Mix until the coconut is fully coated, but save ¼-⅓ cup of caramel for later!
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Assemble Cookies: Spread a thin layer of the reserved caramel on each cookie. Then, generously mound the coconut mixture on top, gently pressing down.
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Set the Topping: Let your coconut topping set for about 15-30 minutes. This will help it adhere better when you coat the cookies in chocolate.
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Melt Chocolate: In a microwave, combine the Ghirardelli melting wafers and a teaspoon of oil. Heat in short bursts until completely melted and smooth.
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Dip Cookies: Dunk the bottom half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off before placing on a Silpat-lined baking sheet.
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Drizzle Chocolate: Use any remaining melted chocolate to drizzle over the tops of the cookies for a finishing touch. Allow to set completely before serving.
Optional: Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for an extra flavor burst!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Samoas Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store Samoas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and taste.
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Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to use a sealed container to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked goodness. Indulge in your delightful Samoas cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Samoas cookies are a fantastic indulgence that can be prepped ahead, saving you precious time during busy weeks! You can roll out the cookie dough and chill it for up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavors and make cutting easier. Additionally, the toasted coconut can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to finish, simply bake the chilled cookies and assemble them with the coconut and caramel topping. By following these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade Samoas cookies without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Samoas Cookies?
These delightful treats are perfect for transforming any gathering into a celebration of flavors and aromas.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich, bold notes of coffee enhance the chocolate and caramel in the cookies, making each bite feel indulgent.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla provides a cool contrast to the sweet, chewy cookies, creating a delightful texture combination.
- Chocolate Milkshake: This thick and creamy treat complements the chocolate coating perfectly, bringing a nostalgic joy to your dessert experience.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing blend of juicy berries and melons adds a bright, zesty contrast to the decadent flavors of the cookies.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Elevate each cookie by drizzling extra caramel, enhancing the gooey goodness while maintaining that signature flavor profile.
- Almonds or Pecans: Liven things up with a crunchy nut on the side; the nutty notes pair beautifully with the sweet coconut and chocolate.
- Tea Selection: Herbal or chai teas are heartwarming options that balance the sweetness and provide a soothing end to the meal.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: A romantic addition for any occasion, these berries echo the rich chocolate in the cookies, making for an elegant pairing.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream to your serving plate for an airy, delightful texture difference that enhances every bite.
Each of these pairings will elevate your Samoas cookies from a delectable dessert to a memorable experience, perfect for any occasion!
Expert Tips for Samoas Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Allow the rolled-out dough to chill for at least an hour; this is crucial for the right texture and easier cutting.
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Toast Coconut Wisely: Keep a close eye on the coconut while toasting it; it can burn quickly. Stir frequently for even browning.
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Melt Caramels Gradually: Melt caramels in short increments to avoid scorching. Stir well for a smooth consistency before mixing with coconut.
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No Overmixing: When adding flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
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Chocolate Coating: When dipping cookies in chocolate, gently tap off excess to avoid a puddle forming; this helps create a nice finish.
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Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness. Enjoy your Samoas cookies for days!
Samoas Cookies Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on Samoas cookies!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the same wonderful taste without the gluten.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or almonds into the coconut mixture to add a delightful crunch.
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Caramel Alternative: Use a homemade or store-bought vegan caramel for a dairy-free version that doesn’t skimp on sweetness.
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Coconut Oil: Replace the butter with coconut oil for an extra coconutty flavor and a dairy-free option.
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Flavor Infusion: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for an aromatic nutty flavor that elevates the cookie experience.
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Coconut Flakes: Experiment with unsweetened coconut flakes for a less sugary topping, perfect for those who prefer a subtler sweetness.
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Chocolate Variety: Instead of dark chocolate melting wafers, try white chocolate or even a mix of dark and milk chocolate for a unique twist that excites the palate.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the chocolate for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Let these variations inspire your next batch of Samoas cookies, and enjoy the endless possibilities that await!
Samoas Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe coconut flakes?
Absolutely! When selecting shredded coconut flakes, look for those that are soft, moist, and free from dark spots. If you see any discoloration or an unusual odor, it’s best to skip those. Fresh coconut flakes should smell pleasantly sweet and have a fluffy texture.
What is the best way to store Samoas cookies?
Very practical! Store your Samoas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture. If you prefer them a bit firmer, you can pop them in the fridge for up to a week; just ensure they’re sealed tight to prevent any drying out.
Can I freeze Samoas cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your Samoas cookies, place them in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag or container, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
What if my cookies turned out too hard?
Oh no, we don’t want hard cookies! If your Samoas cookies are too tough, it might be due to overmixing the dough or baking them for too long. For the next batch, mix the flour just until it’s combined and keep an eye on them in the oven—8-10 minutes should be enough, and the edges should be just golden.
Are there any dietary concerns with Samoas cookies?
Great question! Samoas cookies contain common allergens like dairy and gluten. If you need a dairy-free version, consider using vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate. Additionally, be cautious if there are nut allergies, as you can add them to the recipe if you wish! Always check ingredient labels, especially for caramels, as they may contain allergens.
How long does it take to prepare Samoas cookies?
Good to know! The total time to prepare and bake Samoas cookies is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with an additional 1 hour for chilling the dough. The prep time itself is around 20 minutes, making it pretty accessible even for those busy days!
Irresistible Samoas Cookies You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your stand mixer, combine the unsalted butter and salt. Beat on medium for 2-4 minutes until creamy and fluffy.
- Add granulated sugar, powdered sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat again for 1-2 minutes until everything is well integrated and smooth.
- Gently add the all-purpose flour and baking soda at low speed. Mix until the dough just comes together—don’t overwork it!
- Shape the dough into a disk and place it on parchment paper. Roll it out to about ¼ inch thick between two sheets.
- Wrap it up and chill the rolled-out dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Spread the shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Use a 2-inch cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the dough. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until the edges just start to turn golden.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, unwrap the caramels and add heavy cream. Microwave in short increments, stirring between each, until fully melted.
- Pour most of your melted caramel into the toasted coconut. Mix until the coconut is fully coated, but save ¼-⅓ cup of caramel for later!
- Spread a thin layer of the reserved caramel on each cookie. Then gently mound the coconut mixture on top.
- Let your coconut topping set for about 15-30 minutes.
- In a microwave, combine the melting wafers and oil. Heat in short bursts until completely melted.
- Dunk the bottom half of each cookie into the melted chocolate and allow excess to drip off.
- Use any remaining melted chocolate to drizzle over the tops of the cookies.