Strains & products

Cannabis Strain Highlight: Cookie Fam Certified GSC (f.k.a. Girl Scout Cookies)

Published on March 26, 2015 · Last updated July 28, 2020

By now the legend of the cannabis strain GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) has extended its branches across the globe. GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) has become a cultural phenomenon, its popularity rivaling other well-known American cannabis varieties such as OG KushGranddaddy Purple, and Sour Diesel.

Sometimes referred to by its initials GSC, GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) is a hybrid strain that originated in the San Francisco/Bay Area. The strain is bred by an underground collective of breeders known as the Cookie Family (#cookiefam), who, since medical and recreational laws have expanded, are taking their genetics and brand to the mainstream of the booming west coast cannabis market. The Cookie Fam growers are responsible for other standout genetics like Cherry Pie, Sunset Sherbet, and Gelato, all following the pattern of naming the strains after delicious desserts with flavors reminiscent of the sweet terpene profiles the strains produce.

Cookie Fam remains protective of their proprietary genetics, and for good reason given the popularity of their hybrid creations. GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) genetics have been explained as a mix of Durban Poison with influence from Cookie Fam’s secret F1 strain. This combination was then bred with OG Kush, or simply Kush, as the Cookie Fam calls it, to produce the powerhouse we know as GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies). The strain is known to grow tall and slender and can benefit from a little extra attention. It is not known for heavy yields, but it does produce a pungent aroma that can cut through carbon filters and is amplified by a long, slow cure.

On the hunt for the illustrious GSC, the Leafly Explorer returned over 30 locations in my area that had it on their menu. However, Cookie Fam will tell you very few locations have true Girl Scout Cookie genetics. Most are bag seeds that have been grown out or are knock-offs feeding on the GSC brand. Cookie Fam has recently started certifying their harvests with a hologram sticker so you know that you have the real Cookies in your stash jar.

The Bakeréé is billed as the only location in the state of Washington where medical patients can obtain certified Cookie Fam genetics, making it a logical choice for Seattle dispensaries to visit if you want the real deal GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies). With that in mind, I headed to the south end of Seattle to see what The Bakeréé had in the oven.

GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies)’ Taste and Effects

The stories of GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies)’ powerful aroma were immediately confirmed. By the time I got home with some fresh Thin Mint GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies), my car had completely filled with the dank sweetness emanating from my trunk. I could hardly wait to break open the dark, chunky nuggets of Cookie goodness. The smell was a compelling blend of musky pine notes mixed with a sweet undertone that reminded me of a chocolate-covered cherry. The complex aroma intensified when I broke down and loaded the buds into a freshly cleaned bong.

GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) - Certified Cookie Family #cookiefam

The first toke produced a light smoke that carried an earthy sweetness, followed by a creamy swirl of distant mint flavor. A moment later, a euphoric rush radiated throughout my body and calmed any built-up stress and muscle tension. GSC’s effects elevated my mood to the point of laughter, even at the most mundane attempts at comedy. While the relaxing nature of the Thin Mint phenotype I have helped the body unwind, it only hinted at sleep as the effects started to taper.

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GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies)’ Cannabis Profile

Looking at the Strain FingerprintTM provided by Steep Hill, we get an idea of the cannabinoid and terpene concentrations that GSC regularly results in when lab tested. The first thing you’ll notice is the high levels of THC that lend to the potent psychoactive effects that draw so many to this strain. The increased levels of CBG found in GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) show the potential for it provide a level of neuroprotectivity, though truly neurogenic compounds are few and far between.

GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) Strain Fingerprint from Steep Hill Labs

GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies)’ unique aroma can be attributed to its intricate terpene profile, which is rich in Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Linalool. These terpenes mix to create the spicy blend of floral and citrus flavors that give GSC its intense bouquet.

Reviews of the GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) Cannabis Strain

Everyone seems to have an opinion on GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies). Personally, if you can find Cookie Fam certified genetics, I don’t see what’s not to like.

What about you? What are your thoughts and experiences with GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies)? Let the Leafly community know by leaving a review on the strain’s details page. If you decide GSC isn’t for you, you can find thousands of other strains you might enjoy on the Leafly Strain Explorer, but here are a few of my favorite GSC (f.k.a Girl Scout Cookies) reviews from the Leafly faithful:

“What a fantastic strain of cannabis. I have smoked a lot of strains and this one is amazing. It feels like an indica but I’m really energized, like I could function at work, and clear minded. GSC is definitely a very strong pain killer, I have severe back pain, would recommend to people who have MS or deteriorating cancers. Also a really functioning high as well.” – Echelon4400

“If you wanna feel like a warm pat of butter melting in the sun, this is for you. no center with this. pairs well with a nutella crepe and vanilla ice cream” – blissreplacement

“Insanely euphoric, deep body high, very pleasing sweet citrus taste and smell, absolutely gorgeous buds. Turns you into Giggles McGigglesworth for sure. This one came out of nowhere on me. I had no idea what I was getting into with this strain, but my goodness has it earned my #1 top spot which was previously held by White Widow.” – Cynergy

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Will Hyde
Will Hyde
Will is a brand builder, product expert, and storyteller with 2 decades of experience in the cannabis industry. The former co-host of Leafly's "What Are You Smoking" podcast has dedicated his life to sharing his passion for cannabis with anyone who will listen. Follow him on Instagram at @the.avid.dabber
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