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Cookies/Gelato Family
The Cookies/Gelato family dominates modern cannabis culture. Founded on Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)—a legendary cross of OG Kush and Durban Poison from San Francisco—this family has produced more award-winning strains than any other in the past decade.
Foundation Genetics
GSC (OG Kush Ă— Durban Poison)
Typical THC Range
22-30%+
Primary Terpenes
Defining Characteristics
- âś“Dense, colorful buds
- âś“Sweet, dessert-like aromas
- âś“Balanced hybrid effects
- âś“Very high THC potential
- âś“Heavy resin production (great for extracts)
Overview
The Cookies/Gelato family dominates modern cannabis culture. Founded on Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)—a legendary cross of OG Kush and Durban Poison from San Francisco—this family has produced more award-winning strains than any other in the past decade. Characterized by dessert-like sweetness, heavy trichome coverage, and extremely high THC potential, Cookies genetics appear in most dispensary top-shelf offerings today.
History
Girl Scout Cookies emerged from the San Francisco Bay Area cannabis scene in the early 2010s, popularized by the Cookies brand and their collaborations with rappers and celebrities. Gelato followed, created by crossing Sunset Sherbet with Thin Mint GSC. Together, these strains launched hundreds of offspring including Wedding Cake, Runtz, and Biscotti. The family continues to expand with new crosses each year.
Medical Applications
Pain
Potent full-body effects address pain
Anxiety (with caution)
Relaxing but high THC may overwhelm some
Stress
Euphoric relaxation combats stress
Depression
Mood-elevating effects
Appetite stimulation
Strong munchies
Notable Strains
| Strain | Genetics | THC | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gelato | Sunset Sherbet Ă— Thin Mint GSC | 20-25% | Multiple phenotypes (#33, #41) |
| Wedding Cake | Triangle Kush Ă— Animal Mints | 22-27% | Strain of the Year 2019 |
| Ice Cream Cake | Wedding Cake Ă— Gelato #33 | 20-25% | Dessert terps |
| Runtz | Gelato Ă— Zkittlez | 19-29% | Strain of the Year 2020 |
| Biscotti | Gelato 25 Ă— Florida OG | 21-25% | Cookie dough flavor |
| Gary Payton | The Y Ă— Snowman | 20-25% | Cookies collaboration |
| Permanent Marker | Biscotti Ă— Sherb BX Ă— Jealousy | 28-35% | Strain of the Year 2023 |
| Apple Fritter | Sour Apple Ă— Animal Cookies | 22-32% | Apple pastry flavor |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cookies family strains so popular?
Cookies family strains combine exceptional flavor (sweet, dessert-like), high potency (often 25%+ THC), beautiful appearance (colorful, frosty buds), and balanced effects. Their widespread availability and effective marketing have made them cultural icons.
What is the difference between Cookies and Gelato strains?
GSC (Cookies) is the original, crossing OG Kush with Durban Poison. Gelato is a descendant of GSC, crossing Sunset Sherbet with Thin Mint GSC. Gelato tends to be slightly more balanced and creamy, while GSC is more earthy and OG-forward.
Why are Cookies strains so potent?
Cookies genetics combine high-THC OG Kush with the unique cannabinoid expression of Durban Poison. Subsequent breeding selected for maximum THC and terpene production, creating some of the most potent strains available.
Typical Terpene Profile
Cannabinoid Profile
High total terpene content
Find Your Strain
Browse strains from the Cookies/Gelato Family or explore other genetic families.