Homemade Thin Mint Cookies
Homemade Thin Mint Cookies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing mint flavor that transports you back to those beloved Girl Scout cookies. With each crispy bite, you experience a satisfying crunch, followed by a smooth, luxurious chocolate coating. The cool sensation of peppermint elevates this treat, making it perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply indulging after a long day. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, allowing you to create these mouthwatering cookies from the comfort of your own home. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide on how to make the best Homemade Thin Mint Cookies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Homemade Thin Mint Cookies aren’t just a tasty treat; they come with a host of benefits. First and foremost, the prep is simple—perfect for baking novices and seasoned chefs alike. You’ll enjoy a delightful way to involve family in the kitchen, making it a fun activity for all ages. This traditional recipe requires minimal ingredients, typically found in your pantry, which means you won’t have to make a special trip to the store. Plus, who can resist the tempting combination of chocolate and mint? Added bonus: they can be made in batches and stored for future enjoyment!
Ingredients for Homemade Thin Mint Cookies
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened: This forms the base of your dough, contributing to the cookies’ deliciously rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar: Sweetness gets amplified with brown sugar, providing depth.
- 1/2 cup (110 g) packed brown sugar: The best of both worlds! This enhances moisture and gives a lovely caramel hint.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together for perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with a sweet aroma.
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies, creating the desired texture.
- 1/2 cup (42 g) unsweetened cocoa powder: For that deep chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and achieve the right puffiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- 12 ounces (340 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped: For an irresistible chocolate coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract: The star ingredient that gives your cookies that signature minty freshness.
Step-by-Step Directions for Homemade Thin Mint Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until fully combined. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until the mixture appears light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter mixture, beating until thoroughly blended, creating a luscious batter.
Gradually mix the dry ingredient blend into the butter-sugar mixture on low speed. Continue until a soft, cohesive dough forms that you can easily handle.
Roll the dough into small balls and flatten each slightly with your fingers. Ensure they are spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheets for the best baking results.
Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 8 minutes, ensuring the edges are set while the centers remain soft for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Melt the semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl placed over simmering water or in the microwave using 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in the peppermint extract for added flavor.
Dip the completely cooled cookies into the melted chocolate, ensuring even coverage. Place them on a parchment-lined surface and refrigerate until the chocolate coating is firm.
Tips & Tricks
Unlock the full potential of your Homemade Thin Mint Cookies with these handy tips. For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate coating before it sets for a delightful contrast. You might also experiment with dipping half the cookie for a more artistic presentation. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding crushed peppermint candies on top for an added crunch and mint explosion! Always check the consistency of your dough; it should be soft but manageable. Use a cookie scoop for even sizing and easier handling.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Homemade Thin Mint Cookies pair perfectly with a variety of beverages. A warm cup of peppermint tea enhances the mint flavor, while a glass of cold milk creates a nostalgic childhood memory. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert treat. For a unique twist, consider presenting them as part of a cookie platter with other favorites or alongside seasonal fruits, adding color and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each Homemade Thin Mint Cookie contains approximately 150 calories, depending on your specific ingredients and serving size. They offer a delightful indulgence with a touch of minty freshness. While these cookies are a delicious treat, moderation is key. Enjoy them as a delightful addition to family gatherings or as a comforting snack on a cozy afternoon.
Storing Tips & Variations for Homemade Thin Mint Cookies
Storing your Homemade Thin Mint Cookies is easy. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re looking to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are completely cooled and layered with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. You can also experiment with healthier swaps, such as substituting coconut oil for butter or using almond flour for a gluten-free option. Get creative and try different flavor infusions, such as orange zest or espresso powder mixed into the chocolate.
Conclusion for Homemade Thin Mint Cookies
Homemade Thin Mint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the irresistible flavors of chocolate and mint in a fun and easy recipe. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these cookies are sure to please and become a go-to favorite. Don’t wait to fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of freshly baked mint cookies—try making this recipe today!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate for coating?
Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate is traditional, milk or dark chocolate can be used for different flavor profiles.How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be set while the centers remain soft, giving you a nice chewy texture.Can I substitute the butter with a healthier option?
Yes, coconut oil or vegan butter can work well as a substitute for unsalted butter.How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for the regular all-purpose flour.What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
Homemade Thin Mint Cookies
A delightful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing mint, these Homemade Thin Mint Cookies are reminiscent of classic Girl Scout cookies and perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (110 g) packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (42 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 12 ounces (340 g) semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until blended.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls, flatten them slightly, and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 7 to 8 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring until smooth, and mix in peppermint extract.
- Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, ensuring even coverage, then refrigerate until chocolate is firm.
Notes
For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate before it sets, or add crushed peppermint candies for extra crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg






