Samoa Truffles – Easy No-Bake Chocolate, Caramel & Coconut Treats

There’s something about Girl Scout Samoa Cookies that feels like a sweet little memory in every bite. The caramel, the coconut, the chocolate — it’s the perfect trio. And when cookie season ends, I always find myself missing that flavor. That’s why these Samoa Truffles have become a family favorite in our house — they bring all the same flavors, but in the easiest no-bake form.

These truffles are rich, chewy, and just the right amount of sweet. Each one is made with crushed Nilla wafers, thick dulce de leche caramel, and shredded coconut, then dipped in smooth dark chocolate and drizzled to perfection. I love making a big batch on the weekend and storing them in the freezer — they taste incredible cold, and they’re ready whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly & simple: No oven, no fancy tools — just a bowl, spoon, and some chocolate magic.
• Perfect flavor balance: Coconut adds texture, dulce de leche brings creaminess, and chocolate ties it all together.
• Make-ahead dream: They keep beautifully in the fridge or freezer, ready for guests or gifts.
• Girl Scout-inspired goodness: That caramel-coconut-chocolate combo is always a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Fun to make with kids: Let them help drizzle chocolate — messy, but worth every laugh!

Time Needed

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yields: About 72 truffles

Ingredients

• 7 oz sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 can (14 oz) dulce de leche (thick caramel)
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 box (14 oz) Nilla Wafers, crushed (about 3 cups crumbs)
• 16 oz dark chocolate melting wafers or semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make Samoa Truffles

1. Step 1: Combine Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, stir together crushed Nilla wafers, coconut, dulce de leche, and condensed milk until fully combined. The mixture should be thick, sticky, and fragrant. Toast the coconut first if you like deeper flavor — I usually do this step when I have a few extra minutes.
2. Step 2: Shape the Truffles Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop the mixture by the tablespoon and roll into balls. Place them on the sheet and freeze for 30 minutes so they’re easy to dip later.
3. Step 3: Melt the Chocolate In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate wafers in 30-second bursts, stirring after each until smooth and glossy. (You can also use a double boiler on the stove.)
4. Step 4: Dip and Drizzle Dip the bottom of each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate and place back on the parchment. Pour the remaining chocolate into a small zip-top bag, snip a tiny corner, and drizzle across the tops. They’ll look bakery-worthy without the effort!
5. Step 5: Chill and Enjoy Refrigerate the truffles until the chocolate sets. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks — or freeze them for up to three months. They’re divine cold with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa.

Tips from Chef Emma

• Use dulce de leche, not caramel sauce: It’s thicker and creates the perfect chewy texture.
• Don’t skip chilling: It keeps the truffles from falling apart during dipping.
• For extra flavor: Add a pinch of sea salt to the tops before the chocolate sets.
• Storage tip: Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Variations to Try

• Almond Joy Truffles: Add a whole almond inside before chilling for a surprise crunch.
• White Chocolate Twist: Swap the dark chocolate for white and drizzle with milk chocolate for a fun contrast.
• Toasted Coconut Crunch: Toast half the coconut before mixing for extra depth.

Nutrition (Per Truffle)

• Calories: 125
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 40mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Can I make these ahead?
  A: Yes! These freeze beautifully for up to 3 months — just thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Q: Can I use different cookies?
  A: Absolutely. Try crushed shortbread or golden Oreos for a richer base.
• Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
  A: Use coconut condensed milk, vegan dulce de leche, and dairy-free chocolate — they’re just as delicious!

Final Thoughts

These Samoa Truffles are proof that a simple treat can bring big joy. Every bite is soft, chocolatey, and full of that nostalgic Samoa flavor — coconut, caramel, and chocolate in perfect harmony. They’re great for gifting, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Save this recipe to your dessert board — it’s one you’ll come back to all year long.

Print