Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Recipe

The Best Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Thin mint cookies bring a nostalgic crunch that revolutionizes ordinary dessert moments into delightful memories.

These crisp chocolate wafers spark childhood excitement with their cool, minty essence.

Bakers passionate about recreating classic treats will adore this homemade version that surpasses store-bought expectations.

The delicate balance of rich cocoa and refreshing peppermint creates a sensational flavor profile that tantalizes taste buds.

Crafting these cookies requires simple ingredients and minimal kitchen skills, making them accessible for baking enthusiasts of all levels.

Each bite promises a perfect blend of smooth chocolate coating and snappy cookie texture.

Your friends and family will marvel at the incredible taste of these handcrafted delights.

Homemade Thin Mint Cookies with That Signature Snap and Cool Finish

  • Create Nostalgic Copycat Treat: Recreate the beloved Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies right in your own kitchen, delivering that perfect blend of crisp chocolate and refreshing peppermint without leaving home.
  • Master Smooth Chocolate Coating Technique: Learn a professional dipping method that ensures each cookie gets completely enveloped in glossy, rich chocolate with a restaurant-quality finish, making you feel like a true pastry chef.
  • Enjoy Versatile Make-Ahead Dessert: Prepare the dough up to two days in advance and store in the refrigerator, giving you flexibility for busy schedules while still delivering a delightful homemade dessert that impresses family and friends.
  • Experience Temperature-Enhanced Flavor: Discover the secret that these cookies taste even more amazing when chilled, offering a delightful crisp texture and intensified chocolate-mint flavor straight from the refrigerator or freezer.

Ingredients for the Perfect Homemade Thin Mint Cookies

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cookie dough, provides structure and texture.
  • Cocoa Powder: Gives rich chocolate flavor and dark color to the cookies.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and become light and crisp.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Unsalted Butter: Creates a smooth, creamy base for the cookie dough.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cookie texture.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients and provides structure to the cookies.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and classic bakery flavor.
  • Peppermint Extract: Provides the signature mint flavor of Thin Mint cookies.
Chocolate Coating:
  • Chocolate: Smooth coating that gives the classic Thin Mint chocolate shell.
  • Vegetable Oil: Helps create a glossy, smooth chocolate coating for dipping.

How to Bake and Dip Homemade Thin Mint Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and use an electric mixer. Whip softened butter until creamy and smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Mix in:
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract
  • Peppermint extract

Blend until ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 2: Create Dry Mixture

In a separate bowl, sift together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder

Whisk in baking powder and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until a consistent dough forms.

Step 3: Chill Cookie Dough

Divide dough into two equal portions. Roll each section on parchment paper until approximately 1/4 inch thick. Layer dough between parchment sheets and refrigerate for minimum one hour. For longer storage, cover with additional parchment paper.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Setup

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove chilled dough and use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to create circular shapes. Transfer cut cookies onto prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Bake Chocolate Cookies

Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes, rotating sheet midway through cooking. Cookies will appear soft in center. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

Step 6: Create Chocolate Coating

Melt chocolate using double boiler or microwave method. If using microwave, heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each cycle. Mix in:
  • Cooking oil
  • Peppermint extract

Step 7: Dip and Set Cookies

Submerge each cooled cookie completely in melted chocolate. Use fork to remove, tapping excess chocolate off. Place coated cookies on lined baking sheet. Refrigerate to help chocolate set quickly.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy

Keep cookies in sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate up to one week. For extra refreshing treat, try enjoying directly from freezer.

Tips for Crisp Texture and Glossy Chocolate in Thin Mint Cookies

  • Chill Dough Thoroughly: Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading and ensure crisp, clean-edged cookies.
  • Use Quality Cocoa: Select a high-quality dark cocoa powder for intense chocolate flavor and rich color.
  • Perfect Chocolate Coating: Maintain a consistent, smooth chocolate temperature while dipping to create an even, glossy shell.
  • Tap Excess Chocolate: Gently tap the fork on the bowl's edge to remove extra chocolate and create a clean, thin coating.
  • Freeze for Crunch: Store cookies in the freezer for an extra crisp texture and intensified mint flavor.

Keep Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Minty and Fresh in Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store cookies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain freshness for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze: Carefully place cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper, for long-term storage up to 3 months. Enjoy directly from the freezer for a crisp, cool treat.
  • Reheat: Warm cookies briefly at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to restore their original texture and bring out the rich chocolate and mint flavors.

Best Treats and Drinks to Pair with Thin Mint Cookies

  • Brew Cool Mint Tea: Complement the chocolate and mint flavors of the Thin Mint Cookies with a freshly brewed mint tea. The cool, refreshing drink will enhance the peppermint notes and provide a light, crisp contrast to the rich chocolate coating.
  • Pair with Chocolate Stout: Select a smooth chocolate stout beer that matches the deep cocoa undertones of the cookies. The beer's roasted malt and chocolate hints will create a delightful harmony with the thin mint's intense flavor profile.
  • Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Create a decadent dessert experience by serving the cookies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. The cool, smooth texture and sweet vanilla notes will beautifully balance the intense chocolate and mint flavors.
  • Enjoy with Espresso: Offer a small shot of rich espresso to cut through the sweetness of the cookies. The robust coffee will provide a bold counterpoint to the mint chocolate, creating a sophisticated and satisfying end to your dessert.

Fun Variants of Homemade Thin Mint Cookies to Try

  • Chocolate Orange Thin Mints: Replace peppermint extract with orange extract and add orange zest to the chocolate coating for a citrusy flavor profile.
  • Dark Chocolate Almond Variation: Mix finely chopped almonds into the cookie dough and use dark chocolate for coating, adding a nutty crunch to the classic recipe.
  • Gluten-Free Mint Cookie Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive bakers.
  • Salted Caramel Mint Cookies: Drizzle a light caramel sauce over the chocolate-dipped cookies and sprinkle with sea salt for a sophisticated sweet-salty combination.
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Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Recipe

Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Recipe


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4.8 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Homemade thin mint cookies offer a delightful twist on the classic Girl Scout favorite. Crisp chocolate wafers meet cool peppermint glaze, creating an irresistible treat you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Cookies Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (188 grams) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (62 grams) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
  • ¾ cup (12 tablespoons; 170 grams) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

Chocolate Coating Ingredients:

  • 14 ounces (395 grams) quality semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon canola or vegetable oil
  • ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

Instructions

  1. Cream softened butter in a mixing bowl until velvety smooth, gradually incorporating granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Integrate egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts, ensuring thorough blending by scraping bowl sides periodically.
  2. Sift flour and cocoa powder together, then gently fold in baking powder and salt. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
  3. Partition dough into two equal portions. Roll each section between parchment paper sheets to approximately quarter-inch thickness. Layer rolled dough with parchment separators and refrigerate for minimum one hour to firm up the texture.
  4. Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Extract chilled dough and use a circular cookie cutter to create uniform rounds. Transfer cut cookies carefully onto prepared baking surfaces.
  5. Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes, rotating midway to ensure even browning. Cookies will appear slightly soft in center. Allow brief cooling on baking sheet before transferring to wire rack for complete cooling.
  6. Melt chocolate and oil using double boiler method or microwave, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Once smooth, incorporate peppermint extract for enhanced flavor profile.
  7. Submerge each cooled cookie completely in melted chocolate, using a fork to lift and drain excess coating. Gently place dipped cookies onto lined baking sheet and refrigerate to expedite chocolate setting.
  8. Store finished cookies in sealed container at room temperature for short-term preservation or refrigerate for extended freshness. For maximum enjoyment, consider serving chilled or frozen.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the cookie’s shape and preventing spreading during baking.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone mats to ensure easy cookie removal and prevent sticking.
  • Rotate the baking sheet midway through cooking to guarantee even browning and consistent texture.
  • Melt chocolate carefully using short microwave intervals or a double boiler to prevent burning.
  • Tap excess chocolate off with a fork to create a smooth, thin chocolate coating on each cookie.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container, enjoying them chilled or at room temperature for maximum flavor preservation.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

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