The annual arrival of Girl Scout cookies is a cherished tradition, signaling a season of delightful indulgence. Among the most iconic and eagerly anticipated varieties are Samoas – or as some know them, Caramel deLites. These irresistible cookies, with their unique blend of crisp shortbread, chewy caramel, toasted coconut, and chocolatey stripes, have captivated taste buds for generations. While the cookies themselves are perfect, imagine capturing that beloved flavor profile in a grander, even more decadent form. This recipe isn’t about baking cookies; it’s about crafting an extraordinary Samoa Pie – a magnificent tribute that elevates the classic cookie experience to a whole new level of dessert artistry.

Unraveling the Mystery: Samoa vs. Caramel deLite

Before diving into our delectable pie creation, let’s address a common point of confusion that has sparked friendly debates among Girl Scout cookie enthusiasts for decades. You might know them as Samoas, while your friend insists they’re Caramel deLites. The truth is, you’re both right! This intriguing phenomenon stems from the fact that Girl Scout cookies are produced by two different licensed bakeries: Little Brownie Bakers and ABC Bakers. Depending on where you live in the United States, your local Girl Scout council partners with one of these two bakers, leading to different names for essentially the same cookie. For instance, the renowned Thin Mints are a trademarked exception, thankfully maintaining their name across both bakers. However, for our coconut-caramel-chocolate delight, the name changes.

Both Samoa and Caramel deLite cookies share the same core ingredients: a vanilla-flavored shortbread cookie base, generously coated in coconut and caramel, and adorned with stripes of fudge chocolate. Yet, subtle distinctions often exist. While ingredients are similar, their proportions and the precise formulation can vary. Some devotees claim Samoas from Little Brownie Bakers feature a darker chocolate and a slightly less prominent cookie base, allowing the caramel and coconut to shine. Conversely, fans of ABC Bakers’ Caramel deLites often praise their stronger coconut flavor and a taste profile that is perhaps a touch less sweet overall. When compared side-by-side, determining a definitive “better” cookie often ends in a delightful stalemate, as personal preference truly dictates the victor. Our Samoa Pie recipe embraces the spirit of both, allowing you to control the intensity of each flavor component, ensuring a personalized dessert experience that’s utterly sublime.

The Irresistible Allure of a Samoa Pie

Why transform a perfect cookie into a pie? The answer lies in the sheer indulgence and impressive presentation a pie offers. A Samoa Pie provides a more substantial, rich dessert that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings, celebrations, or simply when you crave an extra-special treat. It takes the familiar and beloved flavors of chocolate, caramel, and coconut and re-imagines them in a luxurious, multi-textured dessert that’s easier to serve to a crowd than individual cookies. Plus, when you make it yourself, you have complete control over the quality of ingredients and can adjust the sweetness and intensity to your exact liking. This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius at averiecooks, provides a foundation that is truly exceptional, hitting all the right notes of the classic cookie while delivering a unique pie experience.

Crafting Your Homemade Samoa Pie: A Step-by-Step Culinary Journey

Embark on the delightful process of creating your very own Samoa Pie. The journey begins with preparing your foundational elements, ensuring each layer contributes to the ultimate harmony of flavors and textures.

The Heart of the Pie: Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

While convenience often calls for store-bought caramel sauce, the magic of homemade salted caramel truly elevates this pie. A well-made caramel sauce offers a depth of flavor and a silky-smooth texture that store-bought varieties often struggle to match. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to experience the full gourmet potential of your Samoa Pie, we highly recommend trying the accompanying recipe for a luscious, salted caramel sauce. It’s a game-changer! However, if time is of the essence, a high-quality store-bought caramel will certainly do the trick.

Prepping for Perfection: The Pie Dish

Before you begin assembling, ensure your 9-inch pie plate is thoroughly prepared. Generously spray it with cooking spray. This pie is generously filled with sweet, molten layers, and a little overflow is a distinct possibility. To save yourself from a sticky oven cleanup later, place a sheet of aluminum foil or a baking sheet on a lower rack in your oven while it preheats. This simple tip will catch any potential drips and keep your oven sparkling clean. Trust us, your future self will thank you for this foresight!

The Golden Foundation: Building the Crust

The crust of our Samoa Pie is designed to be a soft yet sturdy base, reminiscent of the shortbread cookie, but with a delightful chewiness. You’ll prepare this sweet, buttery crust and bake it for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. The goal here isn’t to fully cook it, but rather to allow it to set up and develop a foundational structure. It should be firm to the touch but still have a slight give, as it will undergo a second baking stage with the delicious toppings.

Layer Upon Layer of Decadence

Once your crust is partially baked, it’s time for the true magic to begin – adding the glorious layers that define the Samoa experience. First, evenly sprinkle a generous amount of semi-sweet chocolate chips over the warm crust. The residual heat will slightly soften them, preparing them to meld beautifully with the other ingredients. Next, scatter a bountiful layer of sweetened shredded coconut. This provides the signature texture and tropical aroma.

Now comes the liquid gold: a luscious drizzle of sweetened condensed milk, followed by ribbons of your chosen caramel sauce. These liquids will seep into the chocolate and coconut, creating a moist, chewy, and intensely flavorful filling as the pie bakes. Don’t be afraid to be generous with your drizzles; this is where the pie truly comes alive!

The Final Bake and Signature Drizzle

With all layers assembled, return your pie to the oven for another 25 minutes. During this crucial baking phase, the edges will become beautifully bubbly, and the center will appear more set and slightly dry. It’s essential to monitor your pie closely during the last few minutes to prevent any burning, especially around the edges where the caramel and coconut can easily over-caramelize. Once baked to perfection, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to begin cooling while you prepare the final, iconic chocolate drizzle.

For the drizzle, simply melt additional semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy. Using a spoon, carefully create long, vertical lines across the top of the pie. These stripes are a visual homage to the classic Samoa (or Caramel deLite) cookie, completing the aesthetic and adding another layer of rich chocolate flavor.

Then spoon carefully in long vertical lines on the pie, to resemble the lines on the Samoa (Caramel deLite) cookie.

The Essential Cooling Period: Patience Rewarded

This step is non-negotiable for achieving the perfect slice: allow your Samoa Pie to cool for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. This extended cooling period is vital for the pie to fully set and for the caramel and chocolate layers to firm up beautifully. Attempting to cut into the pie before it’s adequately cooled would result in a gooey, unmanageable “hot mess,” no matter how delicious. Resist the temptation, and you will be rewarded with neat, stunning slices that hold their shape and showcase all the wonderful layers.

slice of samoa pie on a small white plate

The result? An absolutely decadent pie that I honestly think is better than the cookie (either cookie) that inspired it.

It’s rich, like a seven layer bar, but the crust does help to offset some of that richness.

Serving Your Samoa Pie: A Sweet Sensation

Once perfectly set and cooled, your Samoa Pie is ready to be enjoyed. This is a truly rich and indulgent dessert, often compared to a luxurious seven-layer bar due to its multifaceted flavor and texture profile. Because of its inherent richness, we recommend cutting this pie into 10 to 12 pieces. Each sliver is incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor, ensuring that no one feels shortchanged. Serve it as is, or consider topping it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an even more exquisite experience. The contrast of the cool cream or ice cream with the chewy, sweet pie is simply divine.

This pie is ideal for special occasions, holiday desserts, or as a delightful surprise for any Girl Scout cookie lover. Its striking appearance and irresistible taste make it a memorable centerpiece for any dessert spread. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

You’ll want to pin this one for later!

📖 Samoa Pie Recipe

Samoa Pie

If you like seven layer bars and/or Samoa cookies, you will LOVE this!

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 35 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 10

Calories: 522 kcal

Author: Sula

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted)
1 large egg
½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for sprinkling)
1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut (loose in measuring cup, not packed)
9 oz sweetened condensed milk (two-thirds of one 14-ounce can)
4 to 5 ounces caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted for drizzling)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9-inch pie dish thoroughly with cooking spray; set aside.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 1 minute on high power.
Wait momentarily before adding the egg so you don’t scramble it. Add the brown sugar, egg, vanilla, and whisk until smooth.
Add the flour, salt, and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Pour batter into the prepared pie dish, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes or until edges firm up slightly. The center should begin to set up a bit.
Remove pie dish from oven, and sprinkle ¾ cup chocolate chips evenly over the crust.
Evenly sprinkle the coconut over the chocolate chips.
Evenly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk (just eyeball the amount for good coverage).
Evenly drizzle the caramel sauce (again, eyeball the amount for consistent coverage).
Return to oven and bake for another 25 minutes. Edges will be bubbly and the center will look somewhat set. WARNING: Watch closely the last few minutes as the ingredients are at high risk of burning – do not overbake.
Remove pie from oven and let it start to cool while you melt the chocolate for the drizzle.
Melt the remaining ¾ cup chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is smooth and melted.
Using a spoon, drizzle thick parallel lines of melted chocolate evenly across the top of the pie, spaced about ½ inch apart, to mimic the classic cookie design.
Allow the pie to finish cooling for at least 4 hours (or ideally overnight) before slicing and serving. This step is crucial for the pie to set properly.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated)

Calories: 522 kcal
Carbohydrates: 65 g
Protein: 7 g
Fat: 27 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Cholesterol: 51 mg
Sodium: 179 mg
Potassium: 340 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 40 g
Vitamin A: 399 IU
Vitamin C: 1 mg
Calcium: 114 mg
Iron: 3 mg

Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.

📖 Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

Salted Caramel Sauce

Make your own luscious, silky smooth caramel sauce to elevate your desserts!

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 15 mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yields: Approximately 1.5 cups (20 servings of 1 tbsp each)

Calories: 61 kcal (per serving)

Author: Sula

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
¼ cup water
1 teaspoon light corn syrup
½ cup heavy cream (warmed slightly is best, but not essential)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ to 1 teaspoon salt (to taste, use flaky sea salt for best results)

Instructions

In a medium to large saucepan (ensure it has high sides as the mixture will bubble up), combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, whisking gently until all the sugar is completely dissolved.
Once dissolved, stop stirring. Allow the mixture to boil for 5 to 12 minutes, or until it transforms into a beautiful caramel color. Watch it very closely after the first 5 minutes; sugar can go from perfect to burnt very quickly. Once it reaches a rich amber hue, immediately reduce the heat to low.
Very slowly and carefully pour in the heavy cream while gently stirring. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up vigorously. Stand back if necessary to avoid splashes. The large saucepan helps contain this reaction.
Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Start with ½ teaspoon of salt and add more to taste if desired, especially if using flaky sea salt for an enhanced salted caramel experience.
Whisk continuously until the sauce is completely combined and smooth. Return to low heat for about one minute, stirring, to ensure it thickens slightly.
Carefully transfer the hot caramel sauce to a glass jar or another heat-safe, airtight container. Allow it to cool uncovered to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken significantly as it cools.
Store the cooled salted caramel sauce in an airtight container at room temperature for at least a month, or in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. If refrigerated, gently warm it before use to restore its pourable consistency.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated)

Calories: 61 kcal
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 2 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 8 mg
Sodium: 61 mg
Potassium: 4 mg
Sugar: 10 g
Vitamin A: 87 IU
Calcium: 4 mg

Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.

For even more Girl Scout inspired deliciousness, try my Frozen S’mores Pie.

Beyond the Slice: The Joy of Homemade Desserts

Creating desserts like this Samoa Pie is more than just following a recipe; it’s an act of culinary creativity and a way to bring joy to those you share it with. Homemade treats carry a special warmth and satisfaction that store-bought items often lack. The aroma of baking caramel and chocolate filling your kitchen, the anticipation as the pie cools, and the sheer delight of that first bite are experiences that elevate a simple meal into a memorable occasion.

The Samoa Pie is a testament to how classic flavors can be reinvented and enhanced. It’s a perfect example of comfort food with a gourmet twist, familiar enough to evoke nostalgia but sophisticated enough to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special day, treating your family, or simply indulging your own sweet tooth, this pie is guaranteed to become a new favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and prepare to embark on a sweet adventure that culminates in a truly unforgettable dessert.

Tips for Success with Your Samoa Pie

Use Quality Ingredients: Since this pie has relatively few components, the quality of each ingredient truly shines through. Opt for good-quality chocolate chips, fresh coconut, and a rich butter for the best flavor.
Don’t Rush the Caramel: If making homemade caramel, patience is key. Watch it carefully and remove it from heat the moment it reaches the desired amber color to prevent burning.
Exact Measurements (for baking): While some steps allow for eyeballing, especially with drizzles, stick to precise measurements for the crust ingredients to ensure proper texture and consistency.
Prevent Sticking: Generously spraying the pie dish with cooking spray is crucial to ensure easy removal and clean slices.
Oven Protection: Always use that foil-lined baking sheet on a lower rack! It’s a lifesaver for sticky spills.
Chill, Chill, Chill: The 4-hour (or overnight) cooling time is truly non-negotiable for a pie that holds its shape and cuts beautifully. Plan ahead!

We hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to bake this incredible Samoa Pie. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of beloved flavors and the joy of homemade goodness. Happy baking!