Every now and then, a recipe comes along that not only awakens the senses but transports you back to simpler times. The moment you combine cocoa, butter, and a hint of peppermint, you’re on your way to creating a nostalgic treat that rivals any store-bought cookie: Homemade Thin Mint Cookies. I first discovered this delightful recipe during a winter afternoon spent baking with friends, and since then, I’ve found it to be the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue.

Imagine biting into a crisp, chocolatey cookie, only to be greeted by a refreshing burst of mint — it’s the kind of indulgence that makes you smile. Plus, each batch is not just easy to make; it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re treating yourself solo or impressing guests, these cookies will leave you feeling like a kitchen rockstar. Let’s dive into the irresistible world of Homemade Thin Mint Cookies!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Thin Mint Cookies

Nostalgia: These cookies evoke fond memories of childhood favorites, perfect for anyone longing for a taste of home.
Simplicity: The recipe features easy-to-follow steps, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Customization: Feel free to adjust the peppermint and chocolate levels to match your perfect flavor profile!
Crowd-Pleaser: With their rich chocolatey goodness and refreshing mint, they’re sure to delight family and friends alike.
Time-Saving: Prepare a batch in under 3.5 hours, allowing you to satisfy cravings quickly without the fast food chaos.
Get ready to elevate your cookie game with these delightful treats!

Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted butter – 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g), softened to room temperature for that creamy, rich base.
• Granulated sugar – 1 cup (200g) provides necessary sweetness that balances the cocoa.
• Large egg – 1, at room temperature to help bind the cookie dough perfectly.
• Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon adds a warm depth of flavor to the cookies.
• Peppermint extract – 1/4 teaspoon offers that signature minty freshness that defines Homemade Thin Mint Cookies.
• All-purpose flour – 1 and 1/2 cups (188g), spooned & leveled, gives structure to your delicious cookies.
• Unsweetened natural cocoa powder – 3/4 cup (62g) infuses a rich chocolate flavor that’s essential here.
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon helps the cookies rise just right for a light texture.
• Salt – 1/8 teaspoon enhances the sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.

For the Chocolate Coating
• Semi-sweet chocolate – 14 ounces (395g), coarsely chopped, provides a luscious outer layer.
• Canola or vegetable oil – 1/2 teaspoon ensures the chocolate melts smoothly for perfect dipping.
• Peppermint extract – 1/4 teaspoon, added to the chocolate, deepens the minty flavor in every bite.

Get ready to channel your inner chef with these quality ingredients that make your Homemade Thin Mint Cookies a showstopper!

How to Make Homemade Thin Mint Cookies

Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer to beat the softened butter for about 1 minute until smooth and creamy. Add in the granulated sugar and mix on medium-high speed until fluffy and light in color, combining with the egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts. Scrape the bowl down as needed for a consistent mixture.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and cocoa powder, whisking in the baking powder and salt until well mixed. Then, gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients on low speed until just combined.
Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal sections. Roll each piece out on parchment paper to about 1/4″ thickness. Stack these between sheets of parchment paper on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Prepare to Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line 2-3 baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove one dough piece from the fridge, and using a 2-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles. Place the cut cookies on the prepared sheet, re-rolling any remaining dough to use up all of it.
Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and firm. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dip in Chocolate: Melt the chopped chocolate and oil in a double boiler or microwave until smooth. Stir in the peppermint extract. Dip each cooled cookie into the chocolate completely, using a fork to lift it out. Tap the fork gently on the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Place the dipped cookies on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate to let the chocolate set.

Optional: Sprinkle a little crushed peppermint on top before the chocolate sets for an extra touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Variations

Feel free to add your own creative twist to this delightful recipe!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Minty Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness in every bite. The melty chips will create a delightful surprise!
Dark Chocolate Dip: Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with mint.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for added texture and a satisfying crunch. This little twist makes it even more tempting!
Peppermint Crunch: Top with crushed peppermint candies before the chocolate sets for an extra pop of color and flavor — a festive touch for the holidays!
Coconut Delight: Incorporate 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical twist that complements the chocolate and mint beautifully.
Spicy Mint: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate dip for a surprising heat that contrasts elegantly with the refreshing mint.
Orange Zest: Mix in a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest for a citrusy zing that brightens every cookie. This unique flavor combination will leave everyone guessing!

Make Ahead Options

Homemade Thin Mint Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a great choice for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it out and chilling it in the refrigerator. Just remember to tightly wrap the dough in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply cut, bake, and cool the cookies as instructed. The chocolate coating can also be melted and prepped up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, warm the chocolate gently before dipping the cooled cookies for a perfectly smooth finish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Homemade Thin Mint Cookies?

Imagine a cozy gathering where sweet notes of mint and chocolate dance in the air, inviting friends to indulge together.

Fresh Mint Tea: This aromatic drink complements the mintiness of the cookies, enhancing their fresh flavor while soothing your palate.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the crunchy texture of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
Mocha Coffee: The deep flavors of a mocha bring out the chocolate in the cookies and add a caffeine kick for an energizing treat.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies, adding a burst of color and a wholesome touch.
Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a creamy chocolate milkshake that echoes the cookie’s flavors, making it a fun and decadent dessert pairing.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: The brightness of the fruit cake contrasts perfectly with the rich chocolate mint cookies, creating a symphony of flavors.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream on the side elevates the experience, inviting guests to dip or top their cookies with sweet creaminess.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent bites echo the chocolatey theme while the fresh strawberries provide a refreshing sweetness that pairs wonderfully.
Mint Julep: This classic cocktail, with its refreshing mint and sweetness, provides a sophisticated twist for adult gatherings, elevating your cookie experience!

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Thin Mint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and crispness.

Fridge: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Freeze cookies layered between parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To bring back the chocolatey goodness, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes. Enjoy your freshly revived Homemade Thin Mint Cookies!

Expert Tips for Homemade Thin Mint Cookies

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and egg, are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and enhances the cookie texture.

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough! It firms up the mixture, making it easier to roll out and ensuring your cookies hold their shape while baking.

• Even Thickness: Roll the dough to an even 1/4″ thickness to ensure uniform baking. Uneven dough can lead to some cookies being under or overcooked.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be firm around the edges but soft in the center when you take them out. Baking too long can ruin the texture!

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for good-quality semi-sweet chocolate for dipping. It not only tastes better but melts smoothly, giving your Homemade Thin Mint Cookies a glossy finish.

• Peppermint Power: Adjust the peppermint extract to your taste; you can add a little more for extra minty flavor or less for a milder touch, according to your preference.

Homemade Thin Mint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best peppermint extract?
Absolutely! Look for pure peppermint extract rather than imitation versions for the best flavor in your cookies. The pure extract will provide that bright, refreshing mint taste that complements the chocolate beautifully. Brands that are natural and have minimal ingredients are often valued by home bakers.

What is the best way to store Homemade Thin Mint Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will maintain their crispness. If you want them to last longer, you can place them in the refrigerator for up to a week—just let them come to room temperature before indulging!

Can I freeze Homemade Thin Mint Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before diving in. For a quick treat, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to warm them slightly.

What if my dough is too sticky to roll out?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! You can either dust your work surface with a bit more flour or refrigerate the dough for an additional 15-20 minutes to firm it up. This will make it much easier to roll out. Just be sure to work quickly, as the dough can warm up again and become sticky.

Can pets eat Homemade Thin Mint Cookies?
No, it’s best not to share these cookies with pets. The chocolate can be toxic to dogs and other animals. Always keep them away from your furry friends and ensure they stick to their own treats.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the cookies?
Very! If you find you prefer your cookies less sweet, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar by up to 1/4 cup without significantly affecting the texture. Additionally, using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa can add a rich flavor while allowing for a lower sweetness balance. Enjoy experimenting!