Making your own Copycat Thin Mints at home is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can whip up these deliciously minty chocolate cookies that everyone loves. Here’s how to do it!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
10 ounces dark or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
1 tablespoon neutral oil or melted coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract for coating
Directions:
Prepare Baking Sheets
Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add Egg Yolk and Extracts
Add the egg yolk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat until everything is smooth and well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Make sure no lumps remain.
Form the Dough
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in two portions. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a piece of parchment paper. Shape it into a log about 1 1/2 inches in diameter and wrap it tightly.
Chill the Dough
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or place it in the freezer for 20–30 minutes until it is very firm.
Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the Dough
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake the Cookies
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the tops look dry and the edges are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
Transfer the Cookies
Move the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely before coating them.
Melt the Chocolate
For the coating, melt the dark or semisweet chocolate with the neutral oil or coconut oil until it’s smooth. You can use a double boiler or microwave.
Add Mint Flavor
Stir in the peppermint extract for the coating, tasting and adjusting the amount if necessary.
Dip the Cookies
Dip each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate using a fork. Tap off the excess chocolate and place the cookies back on the parchment paper to set.
Let the Chocolate Firm Up
Allow the cookies to sit at room temperature until the chocolate is firm. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for 15–20 minutes to speed up the setting process.
Store the Cookies
Store the finished Copycat Thin Mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Thin Mints
There are so many reasons to love these Copycat Thin Mints! First, they capture that classic thin mint flavor that you know and love. The rich, dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the refreshing taste of peppermint, making for a delightful treat at any time of year.
Additionally, these cookies are simple to make. You can easily whip up a batch for yourself or to impress guests at your next gathering. They are an excellent addition to holiday cookie trays, or you can enjoy them as an everyday snack.
Besides being tasty, homemade Thin Mints also allow you to control the ingredients. You can choose high-quality chocolate and adjust the sweetness to your liking. This can make a big difference in flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Benefits
While Thin Mints aren’t exactly health food, they can be a part of an otherwise balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. The ingredients offer some benefits:
Cocoa Powder: This ingredient is rich in antioxidants and may help improve heart health.
Peppermint: It has digestive benefits and can aid in soothing a sore throat.
Butter: Used in moderation, butter can be a source of healthy fats in your diet.
What to Serve With Copycat Thin Mints
Copycat Thin Mints can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair well with various beverages. Here are some great options:
Mint Tea: The fresh taste of mint tea complements the cookies perfectly.
Coffee: A nice cup of coffee, whether black or with cream and sugar, enhances the chocolate flavors of the cookies.
Milk: The classic pairing of cookies and cold milk always works well, particularly with chocolate cookies.
How to Store Copycat Thin Mints
Proper storage is essential for keeping your Copycat Thin Mints fresh. Here’s how to do it:
In an Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the cookies in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for about 2-3 weeks.
Freezer Storage: You can also freeze the cookies for longer preservation. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Chilling the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough adequately. This helps to keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Measuring Flour: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid over-measuring and affecting the dough consistency.
Temperature of Chocolate: When melting chocolate, avoid overheating it, as it can become grainy. Stir frequently to achieve a smooth consistency.
Variations
While the classic Copycat Thin Mints are fantastic on their own, you can also try a few variations:
Add Other Flavoring: Mix in a bit of almond extract along with or instead of peppermint for a different flavor.
Dark Chocolate Coating: Use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor which kids might enjoy more.
Add Crunch: For a little extra flavor and texture, consider adding crushed nuts or cookie crumbs into the dough.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate?
A: Yes! You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate. Just ensure the melting process is suitable for the chosen chocolate type.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: The cookies should look dry on top and have set edges. They may still be soft when you remove them from the oven, but they will firm up while cooling.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for several months before baking.
With a little patience and some simple ingredients, you can enjoy your very own Copycat Thin Mints at home. Treat yourself and your loved ones with these delightful cookies that are just like the popular Girl Scout version but made fresh in your kitchen!