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Samoa Cheesecake

A luscious, creamy cheesecake inspired by the flavors of the beloved Samoa Girl Scout cookie, featuring layers of chocolate, coconut, and caramel.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 2 ½ cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs Feel free to use gluten-free cookies.
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp salt
For the cheesecake filling
  • 3 8-oz blocks cream cheese, softened Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature.
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs Added one at a time.
  • ½ cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 3 tbsp heavy cream
For the toppings
  • 2 ¼ cups sweetened shredded coconut Toast for added flavor.
  • 1 cup salted caramel sauce
  • as needed Chocolate dessert sauce For garnish.
  • as needed Caramel dessert sauce For garnish.
  • as needed Whipped topping For garnish.
  • as needed Samoa or Coconut Dream Cookies For garnish.
  • 4-6 cups boiling water For the water bath.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and salt until well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla, continuing to mix until creamy and well combined.
  4. Incorporate the eggs one by one, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next.
  5. Add the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until everything is well blended.
  6. Pour this luxurious cheesecake batter over the cookie crust and smooth the top.
  7. Place the springform pan into a larger baking pan and fill it with boiling water to create a water bath.
Baking and Cooling
  1. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake is set.
  2. Once baked, let the cheesecake cool gradually in the water bath before transferring it to the fridge to chill for at least four hours, or ideally overnight.
Finishing Touches
  1. Toast the shredded coconut in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
  2. Before serving, drizzle the cheesecake with salted caramel sauce, sprinkle toasted coconut on top, and garnish with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, whipped topping, and the coconut cookies.

Notes

Store in the refrigerator tightly covered for up to 5 days. Can freeze for up to 3 months when properly stored. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.