Imagine the rich, creamy goodness of a classic cheesecake meeting the indulgent flavors of Samoa cookies. This Samoa Cheesecake is a luscious treat that combines buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling, gooey caramel, toasted coconut, and a drizzle of chocolate. Inspired by the beloved Girl Scout cookies, this dessert takes indulgence to a whole new level. It’s perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when you’re in the mood for something extraordinary. If you’ve ever wished you could eat a Samoa in cake form, this recipe will deliver in every bite.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs	2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted)	6 tbsp
Cream cheese (softened)	24 oz (3 blocks)
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Eggs	3 large
Vanilla extract	2 tsp
Heavy cream	1/3 cup
Sweetened shredded coconut	2 cups
Soft caramels	11 oz (about 35 pieces)
Milk or heavy cream	2 tbsp
Semi-sweet chocolate chips	1/2 cup

Notes:

Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits or chocolate wafer cookies for a twist.
Opt for dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a more robust flavor.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers.

slice of samoa cheesecake being lifted with toasted coconut topping

Equipment Needed

9-inch springform pan: Essential for easily removing the cheesecake without breaking it.
Stand or hand mixer: For achieving a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
Mixing bowls: For combining the crust, filling, and toppings.
Spatula: Useful for scraping the bowl clean and spreading layers evenly.
Baking sheet: For toasting the coconut and holding the springform pan to catch any drips.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: To melt the chocolate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream until just combined.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Baking the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan on a baking sheet. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set.
Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour to prevent cracking.
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.

Adding the Samoa Topping

Spread the shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet. Toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
Melt the caramels with 2 tablespoons of milk or cream in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Spread half of the caramel over the chilled cheesecake.
Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the caramel layer, pressing gently to adhere. Drizzle the remaining caramel on top.
Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave, then drizzle over the coconut layer in a zigzag pattern.

Tips and Variations

Prevent cracks: Use a water bath while baking the cheesecake by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with about 1 inch of hot water.
Vegan variation: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and vegan caramels and chocolate.
Flavor twist: Add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the cheesecake filling for an extra boost of tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Present your Samoa Cheesecake on a cake stand for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece. Slice it into neat portions using a hot knife (run it under warm water and dry before slicing) to achieve clean edges. Garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added flair. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra chocolate sauce for the ultimate indulgence.

slice of samoa cheesecake with caramel drizzle on a plate

Pairings

Complement this decadent dessert with a hot cup of coffee or a latte. The bitter notes of coffee balance the sweetness beautifully. For an alcoholic pairing, try a rich, nutty liqueur like amaretto or a creamy Baileys Irish Cream. If you prefer something cold, a glass of sweet Riesling or Moscato works wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Avoid reheating cheesecake, but let frozen slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/12th of cake)
Calories	450
Total Fat	32g
Saturated Fat	19g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	210mg
Total Carbohydrates	35g
Sugars	25g
Protein	6g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

This Samoa Cheesecake is a dessert that truly delivers on flavor and texture. With its creamy cheesecake base, buttery crust, gooey caramel, toasted coconut, and rich chocolate drizzle, it’s an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Samoa cookies or simply love indulging in decadent desserts, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Plus, the stunning layers and topping make it as visually appealing as it is delicious, guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

Don’t let the impressive look fool you—this cheesecake is easier to make than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. We’d love to hear how yours turns out! Share your photos, experiment with variations, or let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Whether you’re making it for a party or enjoying it as a well-earned treat for yourself, this Samoa Cheesecake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.