Copycat Thin Mint Cookies

If you’re a fan of the iconic Girl Scout Thin Mints, you’ll love this homemade version that captures all the minty, chocolatey goodness in a crisp and satisfying cookie. These copycat Thin Mint cookies are made from scratch with a chocolate wafer base and coated in a smooth peppermint-infused chocolate shell. Perfectly crisp, cool, and indulgent, they’re just as addictive as the original.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Copycat Thin Mint Cookies deliver everything you love about the classic treat—crunchy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and a refreshing mint finish—without having to wait for cookie season. They’re easy to make at home and ideal for gifting, sharing, or stashing in your freezer for late-night cravings. Plus, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of creating this nostalgic favorite from scratch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Unsalted butter

• Granulated sugar

• Egg

• Pure vanilla extract

• Peppermint extract

• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

• Vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.

2. Chill and Roll: Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

3. Cut and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a round cookie cutter (about 1.5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set. Allow cookies to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Coating: Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each. Once melted, stir in peppermint extract and a small amount of oil if using for a smoother coating.

5. Coat the Cookies: Dip each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork to lift and tap off the excess chocolate. Place on a parchment-lined tray and allow the coating to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 30 cookies, depending on the size of your cutter. The total time to make the cookies is around 2 hours, including chilling and cooling time. Active preparation and baking time is about 45 minutes.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

• Vegan: Use dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate chips, and substitute the egg with a flax egg or another plant-based alternative.

• Extra Minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cookie dough and the chocolate coating for a more intense mint flavor.

• Different Chocolate: Experiment with milk chocolate or white chocolate coatings for a twist on the traditional taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them. Frozen Thin Mint cookies taste especially refreshing and can last up to 3 months in the freezer. No reheating is required—enjoy them straight from the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

How do these compare to the real Girl Scout Thin Mints?

They are remarkably similar in texture and flavor, with a crispy chocolate base and a cool peppermint chocolate coating.

Can I freeze Copycat Thin Mint Cookies?

Yes, they freeze exceptionally well. Store them in a sealed container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Do I need special equipment to make these?

No, just basic kitchen tools: mixing bowls, rolling pin, baking sheets, and a round cookie cutter.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and chilled up to 2 days in advance, or frozen for later use.

Is peppermint extract the same as mint extract?

No, peppermint extract has a more intense, cool flavor, which is ideal for Thin Mints. Mint extract may include spearmint and tastes slightly different.

How do I get the coating to look smooth?

Adding a small amount of oil to the melted chocolate helps create a smoother finish when dipping the cookies.

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa?

Yes, Dutch-processed cocoa will give a deeper chocolate flavor and darker color to the cookies.

Why are my cookies soft instead of crisp?

Ensure the dough is rolled thin and baked long enough. Overmixing can also affect texture, so mix only until combined.

What type of chocolate is best for the coating?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate is recommended for the closest match to traditional Thin Mints, but any high-quality chocolate will work.

How do I keep the coating from smudging?

Let the coating fully set before storing the cookies, ideally in a cool, dry place or the refrigerator.

Conclusion

These Copycat Thin Mint Cookies are a delightful homemade alternative to the beloved Girl Scout classic. Whether you’re craving the nostalgic taste outside of cookie season or want a minty chocolate treat to share, this recipe delivers crisp, flavorful results with every bite. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to become a staple in your cookie collection.

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