Have you ever wondered how to elevate a beloved dessert into something even more indulgent? If you’re a fan of the classic Girl Scout Samoas cookies, you’re in for a treat! In this post, we’ll explore a recipe for Better Than Samoas Caramel Coconut Bars that combines the rich flavors of caramel and coconut with a buttery cookie base. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also challenges the notion that you can only enjoy these flavors in cookie form.

With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that will leave your friends and family craving more. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients List

To make Better Than Samoas Caramel Coconut Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Substitutions:

• Butter: You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Sugar: Brown sugar can be substituted for a deeper flavor.
• Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut works if you prefer less sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter and sugar blend, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars.

Step 4: Bake the Base

Spread the dough evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.

Step 5: Add the Coconut and Caramel

Remove the base from the oven and immediately sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the top. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously across the coconut layer, ensuring even coverage.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel and coconut layer, creating a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing them into squares. This helps the chocolate set and makes for cleaner cuts.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make Better Than Samoas Caramel Coconut Bars a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut down the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet treat.
• Opt for Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for added antioxidants and a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

• Garnish with Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the caramel flavor and adds an appealing contrast.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair these bars with vanilla or coconut ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Add Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking the Base: Keep an eye on the baking time; the base should be just golden, not brown.
2. Not Cooling Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial for clean edges.
3. Skipping the Caramel Drizzle: Don’t skimp on the caramel! It’s what makes these bars truly indulgent.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Better Than Samoas Caramel Coconut Bars fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

In summary, Better Than Samoas Caramel Coconut Bars are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining rich flavors and textures that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Try this recipe today, share your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor of your bars.

Are these bars gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.