Gooey Samoa Cake Bars

If you’re a fan of those iconic Samoa cookies that hit the shelves each Girl Scout season, then you are going to fall head over heels for these Gooey Samoa Cake Bars. Imagine the rich chocolate, the toasted coconut, the decadent caramel, and the crunch of shortbread all baked into a luscious, gooey bar. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings, satisfying your sweet tooth, or simply indulging in a moment of bliss. With a simple list of ingredients and an easy baking process, these cake bars are sure to become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

There are many reasons why these Gooey Samoa Cake Bars deserve a regular spot in your baking lineup. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a chocolate cake mix as a base, you can whip them up in no time. These bars combine the best of both worlds: a soft, rich cake and the beloved flavors of Samoa cookies. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dessert to a potluck, or simply craving something sweet at home. Plus, they are sure to impress your friends and family, making you the star baker of the group!

The Essentials

To make your Gooey Samoa Cake Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 chocolate cake mix: This serves as the base of our bars, providing a rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 egg: This helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1/2 cup butter, softened: Softened butter adds moisture and richness.
• Shortbread cookies: These will create the crunchy layer that mimics the cookie’s base.
• 1 1/2 cups toasted coconut: The star ingredient that brings the Samoa flavor to life.
• 1 cup caramel bits: These will melt beautifully and create that gooey texture.
• 1 cup chocolate chips: For that extra chocolatey goodness on top.
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: To add a rich creaminess to the bars.

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into your baking adventure, make sure you have the following equipment handy:

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer: To easily blend the batter.
• 9×13-inch baking pan: The perfect size for these cake bars.
• Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Spatula: To help spread the batter evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.

Gooey Samoa Cake Bars Cooking Guide

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get to the fun part: baking these Gooey Samoa Cake Bars!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars will bake evenly and come out perfectly gooey.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out once they are baked.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, softened butter, and egg. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed until it is well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Spread the Batter

Pour half of the chocolate batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Layer the Shortbread Cookies

Place a layer of shortbread cookies on top of the chocolate batter. This will provide a delicious crunch and mimic the Samoa cookie layers.

Step 6: Add the Coconut and Caramel

In a separate bowl, combine the toasted coconut and caramel bits. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the layer of shortbread cookies.

Step 7: Pour on the Remaining Batter

Carefully pour the remaining chocolate batter over the coconut and caramel layer. Use the spatula to spread it gently so that it covers the toppings.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want these bars to remain gooey and soft.

Step 9: Add the Chocolate Chips

Remove the bars from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips on top. The heat from the bars will melt the chocolate, creating a luscious topping.

Step 10: Drizzle with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the melted chocolate chips. This will add an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess.

Step 11: Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and cut them into squares. Enjoy your delicious Gooey Samoa Cake Bars!

Make It Your Way

Customization is the name of the game with these cake bars. Here are some fun ideas to make them uniquely yours:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch.
• Use different chocolate: Swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate.
• Experiment with caramel: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat.
• Try other cake mixes: Vanilla or red velvet cake mixes could make for interesting flavor combinations.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Gooey Samoa Cake Bars turn out perfectly, here are a few things to avoid:

• Do not overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense bars.
• Avoid using cold butter; it must be softened to blend well into the batter.
• Don’t skip toasting your coconut; it enhances the flavor and adds a lovely crunch.
• Do not forget to line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with these delicious bars), here’s how to store them:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• These bars can also be frozen! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reader Questions

Can I use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to follow the instructions on the gluten-free cake mix for the best results.

What can I use instead of caramel bits?

You can use soft caramel candies; just cut them into small pieces and follow the same layering instructions.

How do I toast coconut at home?

Spread shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bars in advance and store them in an airtight container. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

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• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
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• Lemon Drizzle Cake

Ready to Cook?

It’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking these Gooey Samoa Cake Bars. With their rich flavors and gooey textures, they are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. Whether for a special occasion or a simple afternoon treat, these bars are a guaranteed hit. Happy baking!