For over 80 years, Canadians have enjoyed the tasty treat of Girl Guide cookies. Originated in Regina in 1927, Girl Guide cookies were first made by an innovative Guide Leader who baked and boxed up cookies for her girls as a simple way to raise money for uniforms and camping equipment. Little did she know that she would start one of Canada’s greatest traditions - Girl Guide cookies!

The cookies have gone through many recipe changes over the years. In the 1930s the cookies were rich in fruits, nuts and spices. However, these luxuries became scarce during World War II and soon after, the much-loved vanilla crème cookie was introduced. Many people may remember other scrumptious flavours like maple cream and shortbread. Numerous types and flavours were sold across Canada until 1960 when Girl Guides of Canada, Ontario Council, entered into a contract with Christie Brown & Co. for the manufacture and delivery of a sugar-topped cookie. Within a short time, Girl Guides selected our revered classic chocolate and vanilla crème cookies.

In 1993, a delectable new Girl Guide cookie, chocolatey mint, was introduced in Ontario. Within a few years, Girl Guides across Canada were selling the classic chocolate and vanilla crème cookies in the spring and the chocolatey mint cookies in the fall.

Since the spring of 2003, Girl Guide cookies have been produced in a nut free-peanut free bakery by the Canadian-owned company, Dare Foods Limited.

Girl Guide cookies are the largest fundraiser for Girl Guides across Canada. Many elements have changed in the cookie campaign since 1927, but the goals remain the same. Funds raised through cookies sales support girl and women members by:

• assisting the Units with their programs and activities
• providing financial assistance to girls and leaders for Guiding events and camps
• assisting with program development and delivery
• providing training for leaders
• maintaining Girl Guide camps and properties

Now, in 2008, 81 years after the first batch came out of the oven, Girl Guide cookies remain a time-honoured tradition. A tasty treat for you…makes the world of difference in the lives of 100,000 girls. Your support helps make the fun, friendship and adventure possible.