Copycat Thin Mints

If you’re looking for a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Copycat Thin Mints are the perfect solution! I remember the first time I had a thin mint cookie — it was a delightful blend of chocolate and mint that brought back memories of sunny days and laughter with friends. Making these cookies at home means you can enjoy them anytime, whether it’s for a busy weeknight treat or during family gatherings. They are just as fun to make as they are to eat!

These homemade cookies also have that nostalgic crunch that makes them so special. Plus, they can be stored in the freezer, so you’ll always have some on hand for when those cravings hit. Trust me, once you taste these Copycat Thin Mints, they’ll quickly become your favorite go-to sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have warm cookies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies is a great activity for the whole family. Kids love helping out!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These cookies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for future indulgence.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or just an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Copycat Thin Mints, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Gather them all together, and let’s get started!

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for coating)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to customize your Copycat Thin Mints, here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add some crunch: Mix in crushed nuts or crispy rice cereal for an added texture.
• Go dark: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
• Minty twist: Experiment with different types of mint extracts like spearmint or wintergreen.
• Shape it up: Try cutting the dough into fun shapes using cookie cutters for festive occasions.

How to Make Copycat Thin Mints

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, which helps give your cookies that lovely texture.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Next, mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. These flavors will really shine through in your cookies and make them taste just like those beloved store-bought treats.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to sift in the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients into your wet mixture creates a dough that will hold everything together perfectly.

Step 4: Roll Out and Chill

Roll the dough between two pieces of parchment paper until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Then chill it for one hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up so that your cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut out round shapes from your chilled dough using a cookie cutter. Bake them for about 10–12 minutes until they’re set. Let them cool completely on a wire rack; this cooling stage is essential before dipping in chocolate!

Step 6: Melt Chocolate

While your cookies are cooling, melt together the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil until smooth. This mixture will coat your cookies beautifully and add that extra layer of flavor.

Step 7: Coat Your Cookies

Stir in an additional peppermint extract into the melted chocolate for that fresh minty kick! Dip each cooled cookie into this rich chocolate coating, letting any excess drip off before placing them on parchment paper.

Step 8: Chill Again

Finally, place your coated cookies in the fridge until the chocolate is fully set. This last chilling step ensures that every bite has that satisfying snap!

Enjoy making these tasty Copycat Thin Mints — they’re bound to become a cherished treat in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Thin Mints

Making these Copycat Thin Mints can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter – This helps the butter cream together nicely with the sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy cookie dough that bakes evenly.

• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to chill for at least an hour not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

• Don’t skip the cooling step – Letting the cookies cool completely before dipping them in chocolate ensures that they don’t break apart and that the chocolate sets beautifully.

• Melt chocolate gently – Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts to melt the chocolate and coconut oil. This prevents burning and gives you a smooth coating.

• Experiment with mint flavor – Adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste preferences. If you love mint, feel free to add a bit more for a stronger flavor!

How to Serve Copycat Thin Mints

These Copycat Thin Mints are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can present them in various ways to impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Crushed peppermint candies – Sprinkle some on top of the chocolate coating for an added crunch and festive look.
• Chocolate drizzle – A quick drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies can enhance their appearance and add an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi complements the rich flavors of Thin Mints, adding a touch of brightness.

• Vanilla or dairy-free ice cream – A scoop of creamy ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the crispness of these cookies, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

• Herbal tea or iced mint tea – Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea enhances the peppermint flavor while providing a cozy atmosphere.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll not only create delicious Copycat Thin Mints but also an enjoyable experience for everyone indulging in this sweet treat! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Copycat Thin Mints are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them, ensuring that you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, layering with parchment paper between each cookie.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warmed, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes, until slightly warm.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about making Copycat Thin Mints.

Can I make these Copycat Thin Mints gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The texture might vary slightly, but they will still be delicious!

How do I get the chocolate coating smooth for my Copycat Thin Mints?

To ensure a smooth chocolate coating, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Stir frequently until completely melted and well combined.

How long do these Copycat Thin Mints last?

When stored properly at room temperature, these cookies can last up to 5 days. If refrigerated, they can stay fresh for about 2 weeks.

Can I use different extracts instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other flavors like orange or almond extract for a unique twist on this recipe.

What is the best way to serve Copycat Thin Mints?

These cookies are delightful on their own or paired with a glass of plant-based milk or tea. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these homemade Copycat Thin Mints as much as I do! They’re not just a tasty snack; they bring back those fond memories associated with special treats. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends and family, these cookies are sure to delight! Happy baking!