Savory LifeRECIPES

Little Brownie Bakers Cookie Varieties Guide

Updated November 5, 2026

Total time
32 min
prep 20 min · cook 12 min
Serves
12
portions as written

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Little Brownie Bakers Cookie Varieties Guide

Little Brownie Bakers is the official cookie supplier for Girl Scout Cookie season, known for iconic varieties like Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs. This guide breaks down each cookie’s flavor profile, texture, and ingredients, so you know exactly what to expect before you buy or bake. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the lineup, this overview helps you pick your favorites and even recreate them at home.

Ingredients

For a homemade approximation of three classic Little Brownie Bakers varieties (yields about 3 dozen cookies):

  • 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • For chocolate coating: 2 cups (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil
  • For caramel-coconut topping: 1 cup (200 g) caramel candies, melted with 2 tbsp (30 ml) milk
  • 1 1/2 cups (120 g) shredded coconut, toasted
  • For peanut butter filling: 1/2 cup (130 g) creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla.
  3. Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  4. Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared sheets. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set. Cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. For Thin Mint-style cookies: Melt chocolate chips and oil in a microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Dip each cooled cookie fully in chocolate, tap off excess, and place on parchment. Refrigerate until set, about 15 minutes.
  7. For Samoa-style cookies: Dip the bottom of each cookie in chocolate and set on parchment. After set, spread caramel-coconut mixture over the top and drizzle with remaining chocolate. Refrigerate until firm.
  8. For Tagalong-style cookies: Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread a teaspoon on each cookie. Dip in chocolate to cover the peanut butter layer. Refrigerate until set.
  9. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips

  • Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and even baking.
  • If dough is too sticky, chill for 30 minutes before shaping.
  • Toasting coconut enhances its flavor—spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring once.
  • For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and chocolate chips; the texture may be slightly softer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies alongside a cold glass of milk, coffee, or vanilla ice cream. They also make great additions to dessert platters or gift boxes. For a festive touch, drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with sea salt.

Variations

Swap the cocoa for an equal amount of flour to make vanilla-based cookies. Add a teaspoon of mint extract to the dough for a stronger mint flavor. For a nutty twist, press a whole almond into the center before baking. To make gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage and Reheating

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag with parchment between layers. To refresh, let thaw at room temperature for 15 minutes; do not microwave as chocolate may melt unevenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Little Brownie Bakers cookies the same as ABC Bakers? No, they are two different licensed suppliers for Girl Scout Cookies. Little Brownie Bakers makes Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, Do-si-dos, Trefoils, and Lemonades, while ABC Bakers offers similar but distinct varieties.

Can I buy Little Brownie Bakers cookies outside of Girl Scout season? Generally, no. They are only available during the annual cookie sale, typically January through April. Some varieties may appear in limited online sales or through local councils.

What is the most popular Little Brownie Bakers cookie? Thin Mints are the best-selling variety, known for their chocolate coating and minty crunch. Samoas (caramel, coconut, and chocolate) are also a top favorite.

Are these cookies vegan or gluten-free? Most are not. Thin Mints contain dairy and wheat, and Samoas contain dairy. However, some varieties like the gluten-free Toffee-tastic are available in certain regions. Always check packaging for current ingredients.

How do I make homemade versions taste like the originals? The key is using high-quality chocolate and authentic extracts. Mint extract should be peppermint, and caramel should be soft and chewy. Toast the coconut for extra depth.

Can I freeze Little Brownie Bakers cookies? Yes, unopened boxes can be frozen for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature to preserve texture.

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