Thin Mint Cookie Magic: 10 Delicious Recipes Beyond the Box
Thin Mints. Those iconic, irresistible cookies that grace our lives for a fleeting season each year. But what if the craving hits outside of Girl Scout cookie season, or you simply want to elevate your Thin Mint experience? Fear not, fellow Thin Mint enthusiasts! This post is dedicated to unleashing the full potential of these minty morsels with ten delectable recipes that go far beyond simply opening the box.
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s acknowledge the magic that is the Thin Mint cookie. The crisp, chocolatey exterior, the cool, refreshing peppermint filling – it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. These recipes leverage that inherent deliciousness to create everything from decadent desserts to surprisingly savory treats.
**A Word on Substitutions:**
While Thin Mints are the star of the show, finding them year-round can be a challenge. Fortunately, several excellent substitutes exist. Look for mint chocolate sandwich cookies at your local grocery store. Keebler Grasshopper cookies are a popular and readily available alternative. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even bake your own Thin Mint-inspired cookies! Just be sure to adjust the recipe slightly depending on the size and sweetness of your substitute cookie.
**Let’s Get Baking (and Cooking!)**
Here are ten exciting ways to transform your Thin Mints into culinary masterpieces:
**1. Thin Mint Brownies:**
This recipe combines the fudgy goodness of brownies with the cool mint flavor of Thin Mints, creating a truly irresistible dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (approximately 18.3 ounces) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil
* 1/4 cup water
* 2 eggs
* 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for extra minty flavor)
* 1 cup chopped Thin Mint cookies (about 20 cookies)
* Extra Thin Mints for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat & Prepare:** Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your brownie mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Mix Brownie Batter:** In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, oil, water, and eggs. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. **Add Peppermint Extract (Optional):** If using, stir in the peppermint extract.
4. **Fold in Thin Mints:** Gently fold in the chopped Thin Mint cookies into the brownie batter.
5. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
6. **Bake:** Bake for the time specified on your brownie mix box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
7. **Cool & Top (Optional):** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting. If desired, top with extra Thin Mints before serving. You can even drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
**Tips & Variations:**
* For chewier brownies, slightly underbake them.
* Use a high-quality brownie mix for the best results.
* Add a tablespoon of instant coffee powder to the batter for a richer chocolate flavor.
* Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
**2. Thin Mint Milkshake:**
A classic for a reason! This milkshake is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day while indulging in your Thin Mint obsession.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups vanilla ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk
* 8-10 Thin Mint cookies
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Chocolate syrup (optional)
* Crushed Thin Mints (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, and Thin Mint cookies.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy. If the milkshake is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a little more ice cream.
3. **Pour & Top:** Pour the milkshake into a glass. Top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and crushed Thin Mints, if desired.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy immediately!
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use chocolate ice cream for a richer, more chocolatey flavor.
* Add a shot of peppermint schnapps for an adult twist.
* Freeze the Thin Mints for 15 minutes before blending for an even colder milkshake.
* Drizzle the inside of the glass with chocolate syrup before pouring in the milkshake.
**3. Thin Mint Bark:**
This easy-to-make bark is perfect for gifting or enjoying as a simple yet satisfying treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 tablespoon shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
* 20 Thin Mint cookies, coarsely chopped
* 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle)
* Pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Chocolate:** In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the shortening (if using), stirring occasionally until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent burning.
2. **Spread Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread into a thin, even layer.
3. **Sprinkle with Thin Mints:** Immediately sprinkle the chopped Thin Mint cookies over the melted chocolate.
4. **Melt White Chocolate (Optional):** If using, melt the white chocolate chips in a separate bowl using the same method as the semi-sweet chocolate.
5. **Drizzle White Chocolate (Optional):** Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the bark in a decorative pattern.
6. **Sprinkle with Sea Salt (Optional):** Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
7. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
8. **Break into Pieces:** Break the bark into pieces and serve.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
* Add other toppings, such as chopped nuts, pretzels, or sprinkles.
* Use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
* Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
**4. Thin Mint Parfaits:**
These elegant parfaits are perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 10 Thin Mint cookies, coarsely crushed
* 1 cup chocolate pudding
* Hot fudge sauce (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Make Whipped Cream:** In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. **Assemble Parfaits:** In individual glasses or parfait dishes, layer the crushed Thin Mint cookies, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream.
3. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers until the glasses are full.
4. **Top with Hot Fudge (Optional):** Drizzle with hot fudge sauce, if desired.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use store-bought whipped cream for a quicker option.
* Add fresh berries to the parfaits for a burst of flavor.
* Use different flavors of pudding, such as vanilla or chocolate mint.
* Garnish with a whole Thin Mint cookie on top.
**5. Thin Mint Cookie Crust Pie:**
This recipe uses crushed Thin Mints to create a delicious and unique pie crust. This works best with chocolate cream pie or a mint chocolate chip ice cream pie.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups crushed Thin Mint cookies (about 30 cookies)
* 6 tablespoons melted butter
* Your favorite pie filling (chocolate cream, ice cream, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat & Prepare:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Combine Cookie Crumbs and Butter:** In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Thin Mint cookies and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. **Press into Pie Plate:** Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Be sure to press firmly to create a solid crust.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is set. Let cool completely.
5. **Add Filling:** Pour your favorite pie filling into the cooled crust.
6. **Chill (if necessary):** Chill the pie according to the filling instructions.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Slice and serve. Top with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a no-bake version, chill the crust for at least 30 minutes instead of baking.
* Add a tablespoon of sugar to the cookie crumb mixture for a sweeter crust.
* Use a food processor to crush the Thin Mints for a finer texture.
* Consider a mint chocolate chip ice cream filling for an extra minty treat.
**6. Thin Mint Truffles:**
These bite-sized truffles are rich, decadent, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 pound semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
* 30 Thin Mint cookies, finely crushed
* Cocoa powder or crushed Thin Mints, for coating
**Instructions:**
1. **Heat Heavy Cream:** In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just comes to a simmer. Do not boil.
2. **Pour over Chocolate:** Pour the hot heavy cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 minute to soften the chocolate.
3. **Stir until Smooth:** Stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
4. **Stir in Crushed Thin Mints:** Stir in the finely crushed Thin Mint cookies.
5. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to roll.
6. **Roll into Balls:** Roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls.
7. **Coat:** Roll the truffles in cocoa powder or crushed Thin Mints to coat.
8. **Chill (Optional):** Chill the truffles for another 30 minutes before serving for a firmer texture.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
* Add a tablespoon of peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture for an extra minty kick.
* Dip the truffles in melted chocolate instead of rolling them in cocoa powder.
* Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt.
**7. Thin Mint Hot Chocolate:**
A comforting and indulgent way to warm up on a cold day.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups milk
* 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
* 4 Thin Mint cookies, crushed
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Crushed Thin Mints (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Heat Milk:** In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is steaming, but not boiling.
2. **Add Chocolate and Cookies:** Add the chopped chocolate and crushed Thin Mint cookies to the milk. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the cookies are dissolved.
3. **Whisk until Smooth:** Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
4. **Pour and Top:** Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream and crushed Thin Mints, if desired.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
* Add a splash of peppermint extract for an extra minty flavor.
* Top with marshmallows or chocolate shavings.
* Use a frother to create a foamy hot chocolate.
**8. Thin Mint Pancakes:**
Start your day with a minty chocolate twist on a classic breakfast dish.
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite pancake batter (homemade or store-bought)
* 6 Thin Mint cookies, crushed
* Chocolate chips (optional)
* Mint extract (optional)
* Syrup and whipped cream for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Pancake Batter:** Prepare your pancake batter according to the recipe or package directions.
2. **Add Crushed Thin Mints:** Gently fold the crushed Thin Mint cookies into the pancake batter. Add chocolate chips or mint extract for extra flavor, if desired.
3. **Cook Pancakes:** Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
4. **Flip and Cook:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Serve the pancakes immediately with syrup and whipped cream.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Top with a dusting of powdered sugar and more crushed Thin Mints.
* Add a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an extra decadent treat.
* Use mini chocolate chips for a more even distribution of chocolate flavor.
* Make a chocolate syrup with a hint of mint for a perfect pairing.
**9. Thin Mint Cookie Balls (No-Bake):**
A simple and delicious no-bake treat that’s perfect for parties or a quick snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 36 Thin Mint cookies, finely crushed
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 12 ounces chocolate for dipping (semi-sweet, dark, or milk)
* Sprinkles or crushed Thin Mints for decoration
**Instructions:**
1. **Crush the Cookies:** Finely crush the Thin Mint cookies using a food processor or by placing them in a ziplock bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
2. **Combine with Cream Cheese:** In a large bowl, combine the crushed Thin Mint cookies and softened cream cheese. Mix well until fully combined.
3. **Chill the Mixture:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. **Roll into Balls:** Roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls.
5. **Melt Chocolate:** Melt the chocolate for dipping in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent burning.
6. **Dip the Balls:** Dip each cookie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Use a fork or dipping tools to help.
7. **Decorate:** Immediately sprinkle with sprinkles or crushed Thin Mints.
8. **Chill Again:** Place the dipped cookie balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of chocolate for dipping (e.g., white chocolate, milk chocolate, dark chocolate).
* Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cookie and cream cheese mixture for a stronger mint flavor.
* Roll the balls in chopped nuts or shredded coconut before dipping in chocolate.
* Drizzle the dipped balls with melted white chocolate for a decorative touch.
**10. Savory Thin Mint Crusted Chicken:**
Yes, you read that right! This surprisingly delicious recipe adds a unique twist to a classic chicken dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup crushed Thin Mint cookies (about 15 cookies)
* 1/2 cup bread crumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 egg, beaten
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare Coating:** In a shallow dish, combine the crushed Thin Mint cookies, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. **Prepare Chicken:** Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then dredge in the Thin Mint cookie mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
4. **Bake:** Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly browned.
5. **Transfer to Oven:** Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use panko bread crumbs for a crispier coating.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the coating for a hint of spice.
* Serve with a balsamic glaze or a creamy mustard sauce.
* Try using chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts for faster cooking.
**Beyond the Recipes:**
These ten recipes are just a starting point. The possibilities for Thin Mint-inspired creations are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative. Consider adding Thin Mints to your favorite ice cream recipes, using them as a topping for waffles or pancakes, or even incorporating them into savory dishes like salads or appetizers.
**Storing Your Thin Mint Creations:**
Most of these recipes are best enjoyed fresh. However, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the brownies, bark, or truffles. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
**Final Thoughts:**
Thin Mint cookies are more than just a seasonal treat. They’re a versatile ingredient that can add a touch of magic to a wide variety of recipes. So, the next time you find yourself with a box (or two) of Thin Mints, don’t just eat them straight from the box. Unleash your inner chef and explore the delicious possibilities that await! Enjoy the Thin Mint magic!