Samoa Cheesecake Recipe
This Samoa Cheesecake captures the iconic flavors of Samoa (Caramel deLites) Girl Scout cookies in a rich, creamy cheesecake. Featuring a buttery cookie crust, luscious cream cheese filling, and topped with gooey caramel, toasted coconut, and a chocolate drizzle, it’s the perfect indulgence for cookie and cheesecake lovers alike.
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Aluminum foil (for water bath)
- Roasting pan (for water bath)
- Small saucepan (for homemade caramel, optional)
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups Samoa cookie crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs)
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup toasted coconut flakes (plus extra for topping)
For the toppings:
- ½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- ¼ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted
- Extra toasted coconut flakes
- Optional: flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare the crust by mixing cookie crumbs and melted butter; press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill while preparing filling.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream and sugar; mix well. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract. Fold in toasted coconut flakes gently.
- Pour batter over chilled crust. Place springform pan in a larger roasting pan; fill roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan (water bath).
- Bake 50–60 minutes until edges are set and center jiggles slightly. Turn off oven; leave cheesecake inside with door ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove cheesecake, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce and melted chocolate over the top. Sprinkle extra toasted coconut and flaky sea salt if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For best texture, use full-fat cream cheese and fresh ingredients.
- Toast coconut flakes carefully to avoid burning (see FAQ).
- Store-bought caramel sauce is a convenient shortcut, but homemade caramel enhances flavor.
- Use a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure creamy texture.
- Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free cookie crust.
- Vegan adaptations possible using plant-based cream cheese and egg replacers.