If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dessert that tastes indulgent but uses just a few wholesome ingredients, these 3-ingredient no-bake Samoa cookies are the answer. Inspired by the famous American Girl Scout cookies, this version skips the refined sugar, flour, and processed ingredients—yet still delivers that delicious combination of coconut, caramel-like sweetness, and rich dark chocolate.
What makes these cookies so special is their simplicity. You only need toasted shredded coconut, soft dates, and melted dark chocolate to create a naturally sweet, chewy, and satisfying treat. They take less than 15 minutes to prepare, require no baking, and are freezer-friendly—making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute cravings.
Compared to traditional Samoa cookies, which often include caramel, sweetened coconut, and buttery shortbread layers, this healthy version offers all the flavour with none of the guilt. Plus, the ingredients are packed with fibre and natural energy, making these a smarter choice for both adults and kids.
Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet, trying to cut back on refined sugar, or simply love easy recipes that taste amazing, this is a must-try. These healthy no-bake cookies are perfect for after-school snacks, lunchbox treats, or a little something sweet with your afternoon coffee.
What Are ‘Samoa’ Cookies?
Samoa cookies—also known as Caramel deLites—are a classic American treat made popular by the Girl Scouts. These indulgent cookies are typically made with a shortbread base, caramel, toasted coconut, and a drizzle of chocolate. While they’re undeniably delicious, the original recipe is high in sugar and heavily processed. My healthy no-bake Samoa cookies are a nourishing alternative made with just 3 wholesome ingredients: dates, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate. They’re naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and free from refined sugar, making them a gut-friendly and satisfying snack or dessert. You still get all the iconic flavours—chewy caramel, toasty coconut, and rich chocolate—but in a way that’s better for your health and digestion. Perfect for anyone looking for a simple, nutritious twist on a much-loved cookie!
Tips
- Use soft Medjool dates: These blend more easily and give the best chewy texture. If yours are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain well.
- Toast the coconut properly: Light golden brown is perfect—this brings out the flavour and gives the cookies a delicious nutty taste.
- Make a classic cookie shape: Use your thumb to make the hole in the centre of each cookie. It gives that traditional Samoa cookie look and holds extra chocolate drizzle.
- Freeze to set: A quick 10-minute freeze is all it takes to firm up the cookies and let the chocolate harden.
Swaps
Dates: You can use medjool or deglet nour dates—just make sure they’re soft. If not, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes.
Shredded coconut: Desiccated coconut works too, but toasting it is key for flavour and texture.
Dark chocolate: Stick to 70% or higher for the best health benefits. If you’re not used to dark chocolate, try a slightly milder one (around 60%), but I always recommend 70%+ as it has more cacao and less sugar.
Storage
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Keep in the freezer for up to 1 month. Let them sit out for 10 minutes before eating for the perfect texture.
More 3-Ingredients Recipes
- 3 Ingredients Date Bark
- Homemade Nutella – 3 Ingredients
- 3 Ingredients Chocolate Covered Pecans
- 3 Ingredients Chocolate Mousse
Samoa Cookies
Ingredients
- 200 g dates
- 80 g toasted shredded coconut
- 60 g dark chocolate, melted (I have used 80%)
Instructions
- In a pan add the shredded coconut and toast until nice and light brown (I added a tsp of cinnamon, it is optional but a good touch)
- In a food processor add the shredded coconut and the date (I have added a pinch of salt to enhance the flavour). Blitz.
- Shape into cookies and make a little hole in the middle.
- Dip the cookies into melted dark chocolate and add on a tray with baking paper. Drizzle some chocolate on top too.
- Let them set in the freezer for 10 minutes so the chocolate harden up.