Copycat Thin Mints

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, you’ve come to the right place! These Copycat Thin Mints are not just your average cookie. They’re crisp, chocolatey, and filled with a refreshing hint of peppermint that makes each bite feel like a nostalgic hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or just a late-night craving, these cookies are incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll soon find yourself reaching for them more often than you think!

What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to make these delightful mint chocolate cookies at home. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or tucking into gift boxes during the holidays. Plus, the best part? You can freeze them for later indulgence! Trust me; once you try these Copycat Thin Mints, they will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the classic mint chocolate flavor—perfect for family gatherings!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake whenever you’re ready for fresh cookies.
• Freezer Friendly: Store them in the freezer for a quick treat anytime you need a sweet fix.
• Deliciously Nostalgic: Enjoy all the flavors of your favorite Girl Scout cookies without stepping outside!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for these Copycat Thin Mints is so easy! You likely have most of them on hand already. They’re all simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 10 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for coating)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with some fun variations.

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in crushed nuts or peppermint candies for added texture and flavor.
• Change Up the Chocolate: Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs instead.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blends to cater to those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Copycat Thin Mints

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. This step is vital because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that light texture we all love.

Step 2: Add Egg and Peppermint Extract

Beat in the egg and peppermint extract until well combined. The peppermint will start to shine through here, setting the stage for those lovely minty flavors!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed before mixing them into the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until they come together to form a dough. Don’t overmix; just combine until no dry spots remain!

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the fats in the dough so that your cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie crumb!

Step 7: Roll Out Your Dough

Roll out chilled dough between sheets of parchment paper until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. This method prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier!

Step 8: Cut Out Cookies

Use a round cookie cutter to cut out rounds from the rolled-out dough. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this is where they’ll get their crispy edges!

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes until set. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack—this cooling process allows them to firm up nicely.

Step 10: Prepare Chocolate Coating

Melt semi-sweet chocolate with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave. Stir in additional peppermint extract to deepen that minty flavor before dipping.

Step 11: Dip Cookies

Once cooled, dip each cookie into the melted chocolate mixture, letting any excess drip off back into the bowl. This creates that luscious outer shell we adore!

Step 12: Set Before Serving

Place dipped cookies onto parchment paper to set completely before serving. Waiting might be hard, but trust me—it’s worth it!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Copycat Thin Mints! Perfectly delicious any time of year!

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Thin Mints

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

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your butter and egg to room temperature helps them blend smoothly, creating a better dough consistency and texture in the final cookies.

• Chill the dough – Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

• Invest in good quality chocolate – Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate will elevate the taste of your Thin Mints, providing a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the mint.

• Double dip if desired – For an extra layer of chocolatey goodness, consider dipping each cookie twice in the melted chocolate. Just remember to let the first layer set before applying the second coat!

• Store properly for freshness – Keep your baked Thin Mints in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. This not only preserves their freshness but also enhances their delightful crunch when enjoyed cold.

How to Serve Copycat Thin Mints

These Copycat Thin Mints are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo! Here are some ideas on how to present these delightful treats.

Garnishes

• Crushed peppermint candy – Sprinkle some crushed peppermint candy on top of the dipped cookies for an added crunch and burst of minty flavor.
• Chocolate drizzles – Drizzle some extra melted chocolate over the cookies after they have set for a decorative touch that looks as delicious as it tastes.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter – A selection of fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or orange slices adds brightness and balances out the rich flavors of the cookies.
• Vanilla almond milk – Serve these cookies alongside a glass of vanilla almond milk for a creamy contrast that complements the minty chocolate.
• Coffee or tea – Pairing your Thin Mints with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances their indulgent nature while providing a comforting experience.
• Homemade whipped cream – A dollop of homemade whipped cream can add a light and airy touch that pairs wonderfully with the richness of these cookies.

Enjoy these tips and presentation ideas as you dive into making your own batch of Copycat Thin Mints! Whether you’re savoring them alone or sharing with friends, they’re sure to bring joy to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Copycat Thin Mints are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy a delicious treat whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies again, let them thaw at room temperature.
• If desired, warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Thin Mints.

Can I make these Copycat Thin Mints gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s one that works well for baking.

How do I achieve the best chocolate coating on my Copycat Thin Mints?

To get a smooth chocolate coating, melt your semi-sweet chocolate with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until fully combined. This ensures a glossy finish!

What is the best way to store Copycat Thin Mints?

Store your Copycat Thin Mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use different extracts instead of peppermint?

Yes! While peppermint gives that signature flavor, you can experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond if you prefer a different taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these delightful Copycat Thin Mints! They offer that nostalgic taste while being easy to prepare and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Enjoy every bite and feel free to experiment with flavors. Happy baking!