When you buy cookies from a Girl Scout this year, you will be part of a continuing tradition that has reached a significant milestone. This year marks the 100th year that Girl Scouts have sold their iconic cookies. Each year for the last century, the cookie program has powered the Girl Scout program. Their cookies have always been more than just a sweet treat; they have been the core of their "giving back" program since the very beginning.
In fact, that very beginning happened right here in Oklahoma. The girls of the Mistletoe Troop from Muskogee set out to make Christmas bags to send to Oklahoma soldiers. They made and sold cookies along with popcorn balls and calendars to fund their project. In December of 1917, the troop shipped its hard-earned bags to the 142nd Infantry at Camp Bowie in Fort Worth, setting the stage for all cookie sales to follow. Other troops took note of their success and the idea grew into the annually anticipated cookie program we all love today.
Originally, cookies were handmade in Girl Scouts’ home kitchens until the late 1930s when demand outgrew that method of manufacturing and a commercial baker was needed to meet consumers’ ever-growing interest. Over the years other flavors have been added, with the ever-popular Thin Mint cookie making its debut in 1959.
All along the way, Girl Scouts have used their annual sale to learn important life skills like goal-setting, financial literacy and business ethnics, in addition to funding their fun, educational activities and community impact projects.
To celebrate 100 years of Girl Scout Cookies, a new cookie flavor has been added to the lineup.
In honor of the outdoor adventuring that is hallmark to Girl Scouting, the newest cookie is a specialty-ingredient, s’mores-inspired sandwich cookie. Creamy marshmallow and sweet chocolate are sandwiched between two graham cookies “promoting Girl Scouting with every bite!”
This year’s cookie sales will begin in February. So be sure to call up your favorite girl scout or visit www.girlscouts.org/en/cookies/all-about-cookies to find cookies near you.
The Original Girl Scout Cookies
• 1 cup of butter, or substitute
• 1 cup of sugar
• 2 tablespoons of milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla
• 2 cups of flour
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
Cream butter and sugar; add well-beaten eggs, then milk, vanilla, flour and baking powder.
Roll thin and bake in quick oven. (Sprinkle sugar on top.)
Makes six to seven dozen, sold back in the 1920s for 25 to 35 cents per dozen.
Modern-day tips: Refrigerate batter for at least one hour before rolling and cutting cookies.
Bake in a quick oven at 375° for approximately 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges begin to brown.
