Every year, as winter ends, Girl Scout cookie season begins. It’s more than just buying treats. It’s about memories, community, and tradition. Seeing those bright boxes brings back childhood moments—selling cookies, setting up booths, and waiting for a favorite flavor. For many, this season is a time to relive the past. Sharing stories over Thin Mints, enjoying a fresh box of Samoas, or even incorporating cookies into a delicious breakfast makes it special. Whether crumbling Trefoils into yogurt, using Do-si-dos as a pancake topping, or making a Thin Mint smoothie, Girl Scout cookies can be a fun morning treat. These cookies are more than snacks. They support young scouts and teach them valuable skills in business and leadership.
The History and Origins of Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout cookies have been around for over 100 years. The first known cookie sale was in 1917. A troop in Muskogee, Oklahoma, baked and sold homemade cookies to raise money. By the 1930s, the idea had spread, and commercial bakeries began making them. In 1936, the National Girl Scout organization licensed its first bakery. This helped bring cookies to more people across the country.
Over time, flavors have changed to match new tastes. Thin Mints, one of the oldest varieties, remains the top seller. The program not only provides tasty cookies but also teaches Girl Scouts skills like money management, marketing, and teamwork.
How Girl Scout Cookies Are Made
Two bakeries make Girl Scout cookies: ABC Bakers and Little Brownie Bakers. Each Girl Scout Council picks which bakery to work with. Because of this, cookie names and recipes can vary by location. Some cookies may taste slightly different depending on the bakery.
If your favorite cookie seems different than before, this could be why. Even the same cookie can have slight changes based on its ingredients and baking method.
What’s New in 2025?
There are no new flavors this year. The 2024 lineup is returning, but with one big change—two cookies are being discontinued.
If you love Toast-Yay! (ABC Bakers) or S’mores (Little Brownie Bakers), this is your last chance to get them. ABC Bakers already stopped making S’mores, so only Little Brownie Bakers will sell them in 2025.
Why Do Some Cookies Have Different Names?
Since two bakeries make Girl Scout cookies, some cookies have different names depending on where you buy them. For example:
- Samoas (Little Brownie Bakers) are called Caramel deLites (ABC Bakers)
- Tagalongs (Little Brownie Bakers) are known as Peanut Butter Patties (ABC Bakers)
Even though the names differ, the cookies are nearly the same. Some people may notice small differences in taste or texture, but they are made to be similar.
2025 Girl Scout Cookie Lineup
Here are the cookies you can buy this year:
Little Brownie Bakers:
- Thin Mints
- Tagalongs
- Samoas
- Do-si-dos
- Trefoils
- Lemon-Ups
- S’mores (final year)
- Adventurefuls
- Toffee-tastic (gluten-free)
ABC Bakers:
- Thin Mints
- Peanut Butter Patties
- Caramel deLites
- Peanut Butter Sandwich
- Trefoils
- Lemonades
- Adventurefuls
- Toast-Yay! (final year)
- Caramel Chocolate Chip (gluten-free)
Gluten-Free Options
For those who need gluten-free cookies, there are two choices:
- Toffee-tastic (Little Brownie Bakers)
- Caramel Chocolate Chip (ABC Bakers)
These cookies are made for people with gluten sensitivities but still taste great.
Vegan-Friendly Cookies
Several cookies are dairy-free and vegan:
- Thin Mints
- Peanut Butter Patties/Tagalongs
- Lemonades (ABC Bakers only)
- Toast-Yay! (ABC Bakers only)
These are great options for those following a plant-based diet.
Are Girl Scout Cookies Kosher and Halal?
Yes! All Girl Scout cookies are certified kosher and halal. This makes them accessible to more people with different dietary needs.
The Most Popular Girl Scout Cookie
Thin Mints are the most popular Girl Scout cookie every year. Their crispy, minty, chocolate-covered goodness has made them a fan favorite since 1939.
Other top sellers include Samoas (Caramel deLites) and Tagalongs (Peanut Butter Patties). These cookies have rich flavors that keep people coming back for more.
Where to Buy Girl Scout Cookies in 2025
Want to grab some cookies? Here’s how you can get them:
- Find a local Girl Scout. Buying directly from a scout helps support their goals and activities.
- Visit a cookie booth. Scouts often set up booths outside grocery stores, malls, and other busy places.
- Order online. Many troops now have digital stores where you can buy cookies for delivery or pickup.
Delicious Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Ideas
Girl Scout cookies are incredibly tasty on their own, but they also make great desserts. Try making a Thin Mint Ice Cream Pie. Crush Thin Mints, mix them with melted butter and press them into a pie dish. Fill it with mint chocolate chip ice cream, freeze, and top with whipped cream for a cool treat.
Another fun dessert is Samoa Brownie Bars. Bake a batch of brownies, then sprinkle crushed Samoas on top before baking. After they cool, drizzle caramel and melted chocolate over them for a gooey, crunchy delight.
Enjoy Girl Scout Cookies with These Perfect Drinks
Pair your favorite Girl Scout cookies with delicious beverages for an even better treat! Whether you love coffee or fruity drinks, there’s a perfect match. Try Dalgona Coffee with Thin Mints, or enjoy Passion Fruit Juice with Lemonades. Want a citrus twist? Sip on Yuzu Fruit Drinks while nibbling Trefoils. For coffee lovers, Iced Americano and Classic Americano make rich, bold pairings.
Girl Scout Cookies FAQ
1. How long is Girl Scout cookie season?
Girl Scout cookie season starts in January and runs through April. Some areas may have different dates, so check with your local council. Some troops also sell cookies online, making it easier to buy even after booths close.
2. Can I freeze Girl Scout cookies?
Yes! Freezing Girl Scout cookies keeps them fresh for months. Thin Mints taste great straight from the freezer. Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them from getting stale. Label boxes so you can easily find your favorites later.
3. How do I know which bakery makes my cookies?
Check the Girl Scout website or ask your local troop. The bakery that supplies your cookies depends on your region. Some flavors vary slightly between the two bakeries, so knowing which one you have can help if you have a preference.
4. Are there nut-free Girl Scout cookies?
Yes! Thin Mints and Trefoils are nut-free. However, always check the label for possible cross-contamination. If you or someone you know has a severe allergy, ask your local troop for details before purchasing.
5. Can I order Girl Scout cookies online?
Yes! Many troops now have online cookie stores. Some offer local delivery, while others ship cookies to your door. If you don’t know a scout, visit the official Girl Scout website to find a troop near you and order cookies while supporting a great cause.
Girl Scout cookie season is the perfect time to enjoy delicious treats while supporting a great program. Whether you’re buying classic Thin Mints or trying a gluten-free option, there’s something for everyone. Don’t wait too long—some flavors won’t be back next year. Enjoy your cookies and happy snacking!