The Girl Scout cookie season is a time of year anticipated by many, bringing with it the promise of delicious treats delivered right to your door (or purchased from a booth outside your local grocery store). Among the most popular and beloved cookies are Thin Mints, Samoas/Caramel deLites, and Tagalongs/Peanut Butter Patties. However, every now and then, a cookie comes along that captures the hearts and taste buds of the nation, only to seemingly disappear. Savannah Smiles, with their distinctive wedge shape, powdered sugar coating, and bright lemon flavor, were one such cookie. The question on many minds is: can you still buy Savannah Smiles Girl Scout cookies?
The Rise and (Seemingly) Fall of Savannah Smiles
Savannah Smiles were introduced to the Girl Scout cookie lineup in 2012 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Girl Scouts. These cookies were an instant hit, beloved for their unique lemon flavor and powdered sugar dusting. Their distinctive wedge shape wasn’t just for aesthetics; it was meant to resemble a smile, a tribute to the organization’s founder, Juliette Gordon Low, who was from Savannah, Georgia, and nicknamed “Daisy,” who had a radiant smile.
The cookies were manufactured by ABC Bakers, one of the two bakeries licensed to produce Girl Scout cookies. They offered a tangy alternative to the richer, chocolate-covered options that often dominated the cookie scene. Their shortbread-like texture and bright citrus notes made them a refreshing and addictive treat.
However, Savannah Smiles disappeared from the national Girl Scout cookie lineup after the 2016 season. This left many fans heartbroken and wondering why their favorite lemon cookie had vanished. The news spread quickly, and online forums and social media groups were flooded with questions and pleas for the cookie’s return.
The Mystery of the Missing Cookie
Why were Savannah Smiles discontinued? The official explanation was never explicitly stated, but several factors likely contributed to their departure. Girl Scout cookie lineups are constantly being evaluated and adjusted based on sales data, production costs, and regional preferences. It’s possible that while Savannah Smiles were popular in some areas, their overall sales figures weren’t high enough to justify their continued production on a national scale.
Another potential factor is the complexity of manufacturing. The powdered sugar coating could have presented challenges in terms of production efficiency and shelf life. Maintaining the quality and consistency of the cookie across different batches could have also been a concern.
Furthermore, the introduction of new cookies each year necessitates making room in the lineup. The Girl Scouts often rotate cookies in and out to keep the offerings fresh and exciting for consumers. This means that some beloved cookies, like Savannah Smiles, may be temporarily or permanently retired to make way for new flavors and innovations.
Hope for Lemon Lovers: Alternatives and Regional Variations
While Savannah Smiles may no longer be a nationally available Girl Scout cookie, all hope is not lost for lemon cookie enthusiasts. Several factors offer a glimmer of hope for those craving that distinctive lemon flavor.
Lemon-Ups: A Potential Successor
In recent years, another lemon-flavored cookie has emerged in the Girl Scout cookie lineup: Lemon-Ups. These cookies, manufactured by Little Brownie Bakers, the other licensed Girl Scout cookie bakery, feature inspiring messages baked directly onto the cookies. While Lemon-Ups don’t have the powdered sugar coating of Savannah Smiles, they offer a similar bright lemon flavor in a crispy cookie format. They could be considered a spiritual successor, offering a lemony alternative for those missing Savannah Smiles. Checking which baker your local Girl Scout council uses is key to knowing if you have access to Lemon-Ups.
Regional Availability and Baker Variations
It’s important to remember that Girl Scout cookies are sold through local councils, and each council has some autonomy in choosing which cookies to offer. While Savannah Smiles are not currently listed as a nationally available cookie, it’s possible that some local councils may still offer them or have them available through special promotions or events. Contacting your local Girl Scout council is the best way to inquire about the availability of specific cookies in your area.
Furthermore, the two different bakeries, ABC Bakers and Little Brownie Bakers, offer slightly different cookie varieties. What is called a “Samoa” by ABC Bakers is called a “Caramel deLite” by Little Brownie Bakers. Therefore, while the exact Savannah Smiles recipe may not be available everywhere, there might be regional variations or similar lemon cookies produced by one of the bakeries that are worth exploring.
DIY Savannah Smiles: Recipes and Alternatives
For those unable to find Savannah Smiles through official channels, there’s always the option of making them at home. Numerous recipes for homemade Savannah Smiles can be found online, allowing you to recreate the taste and texture of the beloved cookie. These recipes often involve shortbread-style dough infused with lemon zest and juice, topped with a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Experimenting with different recipes can be a fun way to find the perfect homemade version of Savannah Smiles.
Additionally, several commercially available lemon cookies offer a similar flavor profile to Savannah Smiles. Look for shortbread cookies with a strong lemon flavor and a dusting of powdered sugar. While they may not be an exact replica, they can provide a satisfying alternative for those craving that distinctive lemon taste.
The Enduring Legacy of Savannah Smiles
Even though Savannah Smiles are not currently a nationally available Girl Scout cookie, their legacy lives on. The cookie remains a beloved memory for many who enjoyed its unique flavor and charming design. The demand for its return is a testament to its popularity and the impact it had on the Girl Scout cookie landscape.
Social Media and Online Communities
Online communities dedicated to Girl Scout cookies often feature discussions and requests for Savannah Smiles. These groups serve as a platform for fans to share memories, recipes, and information about potential sightings of the cookie. The ongoing conversation about Savannah Smiles keeps the cookie’s memory alive and demonstrates the enduring passion of its fans.
The Power of Nostalgia
Savannah Smiles represent more than just a delicious cookie; they embody a sense of nostalgia and happy memories associated with the Girl Scout cookie season. For many, the cookie evokes feelings of childhood, community, and the joy of supporting a good cause. This emotional connection contributes to the ongoing demand for the cookie’s return.
A Call for a Comeback?
The continued popularity of Savannah Smiles raises the question of whether the Girl Scouts should consider bringing the cookie back to the national lineup. The demand is clearly there, and the cookie’s unique flavor profile would offer a refreshing alternative to the traditional chocolate and peanut butter options. While the decision ultimately rests with the Girl Scouts and their bakeries, the voice of the fans should not be ignored. Perhaps a limited-edition release or a regional revival could be a way to satisfy the craving for Savannah Smiles without committing to a full-scale national production.
In conclusion, while you might not find Savannah Smiles readily available during the annual Girl Scout cookie sales, there are still ways to potentially enjoy their lemony goodness. Keep an eye out for regional variations, explore homemade recipes, and advocate for their return. The spirit of the Savannah Smiles lives on, reminding us of the simple joy of a perfect cookie.
Are Savannah Smiles Girl Scout Cookies still available for purchase?
Unfortunately, Savannah Smiles Girl Scout Cookies were discontinued nationally after the 2019 cookie season. While you might still see some lingering boxes pop up at smaller, independent retailers or through online resale markets, they are no longer part of the official Girl Scout cookie lineup sold during the annual fundraising campaign. The decision to discontinue them was made to streamline the cookie selection and focus on other popular flavors.
This doesn’t mean you’ll never taste a lemon-flavored Girl Scout cookie again! The Girl Scouts frequently update their offerings, and it’s possible a new lemon variety could emerge in the future. Keep an eye on the official Girl Scout Cookie website and your local council’s announcements for any potential changes or special cookie promotions. You can also explore recipes online that attempt to recreate the flavor and texture of Savannah Smiles at home.
Why were Savannah Smiles discontinued?
The primary reason for discontinuing Savannah Smiles, as with many discontinued food products, was likely a combination of factors including sales performance, production costs, and overall demand. While the cookie had its fans, it may not have consistently met the sales targets set by the Girl Scouts of the USA to justify its continued production and distribution on a national scale. Streamlining the cookie lineup allows for better focus on the most popular and profitable varieties.
Another contributing factor could have been the cookies’ fragility and the challenges associated with their powdered sugar coating. The “smiling” indentation on the cookie could make them prone to breakage during shipping and handling, leading to higher rates of damaged product and increased costs. While this wasn’t the only factor, it likely played a role in the decision to streamline the cookie selection.
What did Savannah Smiles cookies taste like?
Savannah Smiles were known for their bright, tangy lemon flavor and their distinctive wedge shape reminiscent of a slice of lemon. They featured a dusting of powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness that balanced the tartness of the lemon. The texture was crisp and slightly crumbly, providing a satisfying bite.
Many fans described the flavor as a refreshing and zesty treat, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a less chocolate-heavy cookie. The powdered sugar not only added sweetness but also contributed to the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth quality. The overall experience was often compared to a lemon shortbread, offering a delightful and memorable flavor profile.
Are there any cookies similar to Savannah Smiles still available?
While there isn’t a direct replacement with the exact same flavor and shape as Savannah Smiles, several other lemon-flavored cookies offer a somewhat similar experience. Lemonades Girl Scout Cookies, for example, offer a similar tart lemon flavor with a shortbread base, though they feature a tangy lemon-flavored icing instead of powdered sugar.
Beyond the Girl Scout lineup, many commercially available lemon shortbread cookies or lemon-flavored wafer cookies can provide a comparable taste experience. Look for cookies with a pronounced lemon flavor and a crisp, slightly crumbly texture. Experimenting with different brands and recipes can help you find a suitable substitute to satisfy your Savannah Smiles craving.
Can I find recipes to make homemade Savannah Smiles cookies?
Yes, absolutely! Because of their popularity, many baking enthusiasts have developed recipes designed to recreate the taste and texture of Savannah Smiles at home. A quick online search for “Savannah Smiles cookie recipe” will yield numerous options, ranging from simple variations to more elaborate recreations.
These recipes typically involve ingredients like butter, flour, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The powdered sugar coating is also a crucial element for achieving the authentic Savannah Smiles experience. Experiment with different recipes and techniques to find one that best suits your taste and baking skills. You might even discover a homemade version that you prefer over the original!
What happened to other discontinued Girl Scout cookie flavors?
Like Savannah Smiles, other Girl Scout cookie flavors have been discontinued over the years for various reasons, including sales performance, production costs, changing consumer preferences, and streamlining the product line. Some discontinued flavors include Thin Mints Supreme, Samoas Trios, and Lemon Chalet Cremes. Each had its fanbase, but ultimately didn’t meet the criteria for continued inclusion in the annual lineup.
The Girl Scouts regularly evaluate their cookie offerings to ensure they are meeting the needs of both the organization and the consumers. Discontinued flavors are not necessarily gone forever, however. Occasionally, a popular retired flavor might make a limited-time return as a special promotional item. It’s always worth keeping an eye on announcements from the Girl Scouts of the USA and your local Girl Scout council for potential revivals of classic flavors.
Where can I learn more about the history of Girl Scout Cookies?
The official Girl Scouts of the USA website (girlscouts.org) is an excellent resource for learning about the history of Girl Scout Cookies. They offer information about the origins of the program, the evolution of cookie flavors, and the impact of the cookie sales on Girl Scout programs. You can also find details about the current cookie lineup and frequently asked questions about the cookie program.
Additionally, many books and articles have been written about the history of Girl Scout Cookies. Libraries and online archives can provide access to these resources, offering a deeper dive into the cultural significance and economic impact of this beloved fundraising tradition. Searching for keywords like “Girl Scout Cookie history” or “history of Girl Scout fundraising” can help you uncover a wealth of information about the fascinating story behind these iconic treats.