Samoa Cookie Bars

If you’re a fan of the iconic Samoa Girl Scout cookie, you’re in for a treat! These Samoa Cookie Bars are a simple, homemade version of the beloved treat, featuring layers of rich shortbread, toasted coconut, chewy caramel, and a drizzle of chocolate. Whether you’re craving something sweet or want to impress friends and family with your baking skills, this Samoa Cookie Bars recipe is the perfect solution. Here’s everything you need to know to make these irresistible bars at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Samoa Cookie Bars

To create the perfect Samoa Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Drizzle:

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (to help smooth the chocolate)

How to Make Samoa Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of an overhang for easy removal later.

In a medium-sized bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and salt, and continue mixing. Gradually stir in the flour until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shortbread is golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Toast the Coconut

While the shortbread is cooling, toast the shredded coconut. Place it in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for about 5 minutes, until it becomes golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn! Once toasted, set the coconut aside to cool.

Step 3: Add the Caramel Layer

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the caramel sauce, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the toasted coconut over the caramel layer, pressing it gently into the caramel to help it stick.

Step 4: Drizzle with Chocolate

Melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil together. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl, microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is smooth.

Once melted, drizzle the chocolate over the top of the coconut layer in a zigzag pattern. Allow the bars to cool completely, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator for faster results.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once the chocolate has hardened, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles, and enjoy your delicious Samoa Cookie Bars!

Tips for Perfect Samoa Cookie Bars

• Use homemade caramel: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own caramel sauce from scratch. It will add an extra layer of richness to these bars.
• Store properly: These Samoa Cookie Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them to keep them fresh.
• Make it a double batch: These bars are so delicious that they’re bound to disappear quickly. Consider doubling the recipe and making a 9×13-inch pan for a larger crowd!

Why You’ll Love These Samoa Cookie Bars

These Samoa Cookie Bars are everything you love about the classic Girl Scout Samoa cookies, but without the need to wait for cookie season! They’re chewy, gooey, and perfectly balanced with layers of coconut, caramel, and chocolate. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a bake sale, a family gathering, or a sweet treat for yourself.

Final Thoughts

Samoa Cookie Bars are a fun and easy homemade version of the classic Girl Scout cookie. With layers of shortbread, caramel, toasted coconut, and a decadent chocolate drizzle, these bars are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Try them out today and experience the magic of Samoa cookies in bar form!

Serving and Storage Tips for Samoa Cookie Bars

Once you’ve made your Samoa Cookie Bars, it’s important to know how to store and serve them to get the best flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips:

Serving Tips

1. Cut into Even Squares: For perfect servings, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into neat squares or rectangles. This helps ensure that each piece gets an equal amount of the delicious layers – shortbread, caramel, coconut, and chocolate.
2. Serve at Room Temperature: While these bars can be served chilled, they taste best when they’re at room temperature. Let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving so the caramel softens slightly for a gooey texture.
3. Pair with a Drink: These Samoa Cookie Bars are perfect with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even a cold glass of milk. The caramel and chocolate flavors are rich, and a hot or cold beverage can balance out the sweetness.
4. Perfect for Parties and Gatherings: These bars are ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or family gatherings. They’re easy to transport and can be enjoyed by guests of all ages!

Storage Tips

By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Samoa Cookie Bars at their best, whether you’re indulging right away or saving some for later!

1. Room Temperature Storage: Samoa Cookie Bars can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or becoming stale. You can stack them with parchment paper between the layers to avoid them sticking together.
2. Refrigeration for Longer Freshness: If you want your bars to last a bit longer, store them in the refrigerator. The cold will help preserve the caramel and chocolate layers, keeping them fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure the container is airtight to prevent the bars from absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.
3. Freezing Samoa Cookie Bars: These bars freeze really well if you want to make them in advance. Simply wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

1. Can I use store-bought caramel for these bars?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience. Just make sure to choose a high-quality caramel that’s smooth and easy to drizzle. However, if you want a richer flavor, you can make your own caramel sauce at home for a more personalized touch.

2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free Samoa Cookie Bars by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure the caramel sauce you use is also gluten-free, or consider making your own. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

3. How do I store leftover Samoa Cookie Bars?
Store leftover Samoa Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

4. Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes, these bars can be made in advance. You can prepare them up to 2 days ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. The flavors tend to improve as they sit, making them a great option for preparing ahead of parties or special occasions!

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