Step-by-step instructions
Making the Shortbread Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and vanilla extract until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut the dough into circles, then use a smaller cutter to cut a hole in the center of each cookie.
- Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow them to cool.
Preparing the Topping
- In a skillet over medium heat, toast the shredded coconut until golden brown.
- Once it’s toasted, mix the coconut with the caramel sauce until everything is well combined.
Assembling the Cookies
- Take each cooled cookie and generously spread the caramel-coconut mixture on top.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for that finishing touch.
- Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
These fabulous cookies are best enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. You might also consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Simply serving them on a decorative plate will make your homemade Samoas look as delightful as they taste!
How to store & freeze
To keep your homemade Samoas fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to extend their life, you can freeze the assembled cookies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving to maintain the ideal texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Shortbread Tips: Ensure your butter is at room temperature; this helps achieve a creamy texture when creaming with sugar.
- Coconut Care: Keep a close eye on the coconut while toasting, as it can burn quickly.
- Chocolate Melting: For easy melting, use a microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can try adding different flavors like almond extract instead of vanilla, or even mix in chopped nuts for an added crunch. For a seasonal twist, consider drizzling the cookies with white chocolate during holidays for a festive look.
Common questions
What is the prep time for these cookies?
Prep time usually takes about 20 minutes, with a baking time of around 10-12 minutes, making this a quick and enjoyable cookie-making experience!
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate is classic, milk chocolate or dark chocolate can also work well. Choose whatever suits your taste!
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
