Easy No-Bake Samoa Cookies

INGREDIENTS:

1 package Fudge Stripe shortbread cookies about 20-24 cookies

1 11 oz package caramel bits (or 11 oz unwrapped soft caramels)

3 Tablespoons heavy cream

2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

2 squares chocolate CandiQuik or high-quality dark chocolate melting wafers

DIRECTIONS:

Toast the Coconut: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the shredded coconut evenly across a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes, then stir. Bake for another 5-7 minutes, stir again, and finish baking for a final 3-5 minutes until evenly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Prepare the Base: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the Fudge Stripe shortbread cookies with the striped side facing up (solid chocolate side down), spacing them about 1 to 2 inches apart.
Melt the Caramel: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream. Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir well. Return to the microwave for an additional 15-20 seconds. Stir until the caramel is completely smooth and velvety.
Mix the Topping: Immediately fold the toasted coconut into the melted caramel mixture until the coconut is thoroughly and evenly coated.
Top the Cookies: Working quickly before the caramel sets, spoon about one tablespoon of the coconut-caramel mixture onto the top of each Fudge Stripe cookie. Use your fingers or the back of the spoon to spread the mixture evenly to the edges …