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No-Bake Samoa Cookies

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Chewy, sweet, and kissed with chocolate, these No-Bake Samoa Cookies bring all the joy of the classic Girl Scout cookie without turning on the oven. They’re a coconut-lover’s dream come true, layered with gooey caramel and topped with a drizzle of silky chocolate.

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Perfect for those moments when you crave something indulgent but don’t want to bake, these cookies come together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re prepping a quick treat for a party or need an easy dessert to share, this recipe hits the spot.


  • No oven required!
  • Classic Samoa flavor with simple pantry ingredients
  • Great for kids to help make
  • Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or edible gifts
  • Vegan-friendly options available

Do I Need to Use Homemade Caramel for These Cookies?

Not at all. Store-bought soft caramels make this recipe quick and easy. Simply melt them with a little milk to achieve that sticky, delicious texture needed to bind the coconut and give that signature Samoa flavor.


Ingredients for the No-Bake Samoa Cookies

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the flavor and texture of these indulgent cookies.

  • Sweetened shredded coconut: Toasted for depth and crunch, this gives the signature chewy texture.
  • Soft caramels: Melted to coat the coconut and help everything stick together.
  • Milk: Just a splash to help melt the caramels smoothly.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds richness and balance to the sweet caramel.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted and drizzled for the iconic Samoa chocolate finish.
  • Salt (optional): A pinch on top enhances all the flavors.

How To Make the No-Bake Samoa Cookies

Step 1: Toast the Coconut

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 3 cups of sweetened shredded coconut, stirring often until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Melt the Caramels

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 11 oz of soft caramels with 3 tablespoons of milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 3: Mix Coconut and Caramel

Stir the toasted coconut into the melted caramel mixture. Mix well until fully coated.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form about 1.5 tablespoon portions onto a parchment-lined tray. Flatten slightly into thick rounds. This recipe makes approximately 18 cookies.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate

Melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second bursts until smooth. Drizzle over the cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate firms up. Store in an airtight container.


How to Store and Serve These No-Bake Cookies

These cookies yield 18 pieces and serve 6 to 9 people depending on how hungry your crowd is! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for a firmer texture up to 10 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Serve them chilled or at room temperature. They’re a sweet treat perfect for lunchboxes, dessert platters, or a late-night bite.


What to Serve With No-Bake Samoa Cookies?

Hot Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee complements the caramel and chocolate beautifully.

Tropical Fruit Salad

Balance the richness with a refreshing bowl of pineapple, mango, and kiwi.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Sandwich one of these cookies into a scoop of ice cream for a decadent twist.

Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas

For a brunch spread, these cookies add a sweet finish to a savory start. Try this recipe

Rainbow Smoothie Bowls

Pair with something colorful and fresh like Rainbow Smoothie Bowls

Tropical Fruit Salad

Great for a themed dessert table alongside Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?
Yes, but sweetened coconut offers the traditional texture and flavor of Samoas. If using unsweetened, you may want to add a tablespoon of sugar to the caramel mixture.

2. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the caramel and chocolate labels.

3. Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use vegan caramels, plant-based milk, and dairy-free chocolate chips to make them completely vegan.

4. Why aren’t my cookies sticking together?
Make sure your caramel is melted thoroughly and mix while it’s still warm. Cold caramel will harden and become harder to bind.

5. Can I shape them into rings like traditional Samoas?
Yes! Use a donut cutter or form a hole in the center of each cookie by hand before the caramel sets.


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sprinkle sea salt or skip it? Did you try them vegan?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.


Conclusion

No-Bake Samoa Cookies are the ultimate treat for when you want big flavor with minimal effort. They combine the magic of toasted coconut, caramel, and chocolate into one glorious bite, no oven required.

Whether you’re a fan of classic Samoas or just need an easy dessert to share, this recipe is a keeper.

For even more mouthwatering creations, explore my Pinterest board over at Meals We Share.


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No-Bake Samoa Cookies


  • Author: Sally Roberts
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 18 cookies
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Chewy, sweet, and kissed with chocolate, these No-Bake Samoa Cookies bring all the joy of the classic Girl Scout cookie without turning on the oven. They’re a coconut-lover’s dream come true, layered with gooey caramel and topped with a drizzle of silky chocolate. This easy recipe makes the perfect quick breakfast idea, healthy snack, or party-ready dessert with no baking required. A delightful food idea when you’re short on time but big on flavor.


Ingredients

3 cups sweetened shredded coconut

11 oz soft caramels

3 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

optional flaky sea salt (for garnish)


Instructions

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 3 cups of sweetened shredded coconut, stirring often until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 11 oz of soft caramels with 3 tablespoons of milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

3. Mix the toasted coconut into the melted caramel mixture until evenly coated.

4. Using a spoon or scoop, form about 1.5 tablespoon portions and shape into thick rounds on parchment paper. Makes approximately 18 cookies.

5. Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in 30-second microwave bursts. Drizzle over cookies. Optional: sprinkle sea salt on top.

6. Let cookies set at room temperature or chill for 15-20 minutes until chocolate is firm. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Toast the coconut gently to avoid burning. Stir constantly.

For a vegan version, use plant milk, vegan caramels, and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Use a piping bag for a cleaner chocolate drizzle effect.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 cookies
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 4mg

Keywords: easy dessert, no bake cookie, samoa, coconut cookie

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