The Evolution and Varieties of Girl Scout Cookies

Cookies have a universal appeal, improving moods and bringing joy. While available in stores, you can also buy Girl Scout Cookies directly from their official website. Established in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, the Girl Scout organization aims to empower young girls and foster skill development. Today, over 1.5 million girls participate, making it the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program, selling around 200 million cookies annually.

Origins of Girl Scout Cookies
Discover how Girl Scout Cookies began and evolved over the years:

1910s to 1940s
In the early 20th century, women and young girls started baking and selling cookies as a fundraiser. The first recorded sale occurred in 1917 by the Mistletoe Troop in their high school cafeteria. By the 1930s, licensed bakeries began mass-producing the cookies, and in 1944, during WWII shortages, Girl Scouts sold calendars to fund activities.

Post-war Expansion (1950s-1980s)
Following WWII, sales surged. By 1951, cookies like Sandwich, Shortbread, and Chocolate Mints were popular. Packaging improved with foil and cellophane wraps. In 1979, Saul Bass designed the iconic logo. During this era, sales techniques and award systems for Girl Scouts became more sophisticated, encouraging participation across different age groups.

Modern Era Developments (1980s-2000s)
In 1982, seven cookie varieties were available, with three mandatory flavors. The 1990s introduced awards for various Girl Scout levels. Packaging and marketing evolved, and young scouts, including Daisies, began selling cookies. The 2000s saw the launch of online sales channels and new product designs, broadening reach and accessibility.

Recent Innovations (2010-Present)
In 2010, the first gluten-free cookie was introduced. By 2014, online sales through the digital cookie platform started, expanding the program’s reach. The Scouts gained media attention when they sold cookies at the Oscars in 2016. Certifications like Halal and Kosher were added, and in 2022, they launched the new Adventurefuls flavor.

Available Cookie Varieties
Today’s Girl Scout Cookies include a range of delicious options:

Toffee-tastic
Enjoy these gluten-free, buttery cookies with crunchy toffee bits—perfect for those who prefer simple treats.

Thin Mints
One of the most popular, crispy mint-chocolate-coated cookies loved for their refreshing taste.

Peanut Butter Patties
Chocolate-covered crisp cookies filled with creamy peanut butter, suitable for vegans.

Lemon Ups
Bright, tangy lemon-flavored cookies that can uplift your mood, but contain wheat, soy, and milk allergens.

Lemonades
Shortbread cookies with tangy lemon icing—perfect if you enjoy citrus flavors.

Girl Scout S’mores
A double-layer sandwich cookie filled with chocolate and marshmallow, reminiscent of the classic campfire treat.

Do-si-dos
Peanut butter sandwiched between oatmeal cookies—an ideal snack for peanut butter lovers.

Caramel deLites
Crispy cookies topped with toasted coconut, caramel, and chocolate drizzle for caramel fans.

Caramel Chocolate Chip
Gluten-free cookies loaded with caramel and chocolate chips, loved especially by children.

Adventurefuls
The newest addition in 2022—a brownie-inspired cookie with caramel and sea salt, perfect for brownie enthusiasts.

Order these tasty treats online to enjoy a sweet boost. Many deals and promo codes are available, so don’t miss out on discounts.