New Girl Scout Cookie “Exploremore” Created With Help From Iowa CEO

DES MOINES, IOWA – Girl Scout cookie season is about to get sweeter. A brand-new treat called the Exploremore cookie is joining the lineup, thanks in part to the work of Beth Shelton, CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa.

Inspired by Rocky Road

The Exploremore is a chocolate sandwich cookie inspired by rocky road ice cream, bringing together rich flavors designed to appeal to chocolate lovers. Shelton explained that the process of introducing a new cookie takes about two years, from brainstorming flavors to final taste tests.

“If you think about there being nine cookie flavors in the portfolio, we look at the data about what cookie flavor could improve the portfolio,” Shelton said. “Lucky for us here in the Midwest, the rich chocolaty flavors are always the top sellers.”

A Careful Process Behind the Scenes

Shelton said every new addition is carefully considered by a special Girl Scout cookie committee, which weighs flavor trends, name ideas, and national appeal. The Exploremore marks a continuation of the Girl Scouts’ tradition of offering both classic favorites and innovative new treats each year.

Early Sampling and Sales Launch

While the national cookie season officially begins in February, those eager to try the Exploremore won’t have to wait long. The cookie will debut at the Cookies on Tap fundraising event on October 9 at the Iowa Taproom in Des Moines.

This sneak peek gives Iowa residents the first chance to sample the cookie before it joins the nationwide lineup in 2026.

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