Copycat Thin Mints Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could capture the magic of your favorite Girl Scout treat at home, this Copycat Thin Mints Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Crispy, minty, and coated in rich chocolate, these cookies bring together the perfect balance of refreshingly cool peppermint and deep cocoa flavor, all wrapped up in a delightfully crunchy bite. Whether you’re vegan, craving a nostalgic snack, or just in the mood to impress guests with something special, this recipe delivers that iconic Thin Mints experience right from your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Copycat Thin Mints Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role in creating that unmistakable taste and texture, while keeping the cookie light and decadently chocolaty.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to your cookies, ensuring a perfect crispness.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor without extra sweetness, critical for the authentic taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a delicate texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened: Provides richness and buttery flavor while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right to complement the mint and chocolate.
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract: The star that delivers that refreshing, cool mint bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• 8 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped or chips: The luscious chocolate coating that makes these cookies irresistible.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional): Ensures your melted chocolate is smooth and shiny for dipping.

How to Make Copycat Thin Mints Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by mixing the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar in a bowl until they become light and fluffy. This process is the foundation of your cookie’s tender texture, so take your time to get it just right.

Step 2: Add the Extracts

Next, stir in the peppermint and vanilla extracts. The peppermint extract gives the cookies their signature coolness, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering it.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures an even chocolate flavor and consistent rise.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet butter mixture until a smooth dough forms. This dough might feel a bit firm, which is perfect for rolling later.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap your dough tightly in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This rest period helps the flavors meld and keeps the dough firm enough for clean cookie shapes.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 7: Roll and Cut the Cookies

Roll out your chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a 1.5-inch round cutter to create perfectly sized cookie circles, placing them evenly on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until set. They may look slightly soft but cool completely on a wire rack to let them crisp up beautifully.

Step 9: Melt the Chocolate Coating

In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate with the coconut oil or shortening if using. Stir every 20 to 30 seconds until you achieve a silky, smooth texture perfect for dipping.

Step 10: Dip and Chill

Carefully dip each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place them on parchment paper and chill until the chocolate coating is set and firm. This final step gives you that signature glossy finish.

How to Serve Copycat Thin Mints Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies are stunning on their own, you can sprinkle a tiny pinch of crushed peppermint candies for an extra festive crunch or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a rustic touch that deepens the chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these Copycat Thin Mints cookies with a glass of cold almond milk or a hot cup of peppermint tea. Their refreshing mint flavor harmonizes wonderfully with beverages that cleanse the palate and warm the spirit.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gifts, stack the cookies in a mason jar tied with a pretty ribbon. Alternatively, create mini cookie sandwiches by adding a thin layer of vegan mint frosting between two cookies—an extra indulgence that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Thin Mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keeping them in a cool, dry place prevents the chocolate from melting and preserves their impeccable crunch.

Freezing

If you want to keep your cookies longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 3 months frozen, ready to delight whenever you need a minty treat.

Reheating

To enjoy your cookies after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Because they’re meant to be crisp and cool, reheating is not necessary but if you prefer, a few seconds in the microwave can soften them slightly without losing their charm.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Absolutely! Regular butter works perfectly if you are not restricted to vegan ingredients. It will add a slight richness that some might even prefer, but vegan butter keeps this recipe inclusive for all diets.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

Peppermint extract is crucial for capturing that signature Thin Mint flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can try using peppermint oil sparingly. Be cautious, as oils are more concentrated and can overpower the cookies if too much is added.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend is a great option. Just be sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder to mimic the texture of regular flour.

Why do the cookies need to chill before baking?

Chilling firms up the dough, which prevents spreading during baking and helps maintain the neat, thin shape that’s essential for authentic Thin Mints.

Is it necessary to add coconut oil or shortening to the melted chocolate?

It’s optional but highly recommended. Adding a bit of coconut oil or shortening thins out the melted chocolate, making dipping easier and resulting in a shinier, more professional-looking coating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about recreating a beloved classic like Thin Mints in your own kitchen, and this Copycat Thin Mints Recipe does just that with vegan-friendly ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these cookies will bring smiles and sweet memories with every bite. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and savor that perfect harmony of mint and chocolate all year round!

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