Ingredient Notes & Savvy Substitutions for Your Homemade Thin Mints

This recipe relies on just a few simple ingredients, but understanding their roles and potential substitutions can help you customize your homemade Thin Mints to perfection.

• Ritz Crackers (32 crackers, typically one sleeve): The genius of this recipe lies in using Ritz crackers! Their buttery, slightly salty flavor and crisp texture provide an incredible base that mimics the iconic Thin Mint cookie. The saltiness perfectly balances the sweet chocolate and refreshing mint, creating an irresistible flavor profile. For an interesting twist, you could also experiment with Oreo thins if you prefer a chocolatey center, transforming them into a double chocolate mint treat!
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Melting Wafers (2 cups or a 10-12oz bag): The choice of chocolate significantly impacts the final product.
  • Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a fantastic and accessible option. However, chocolate chips are formulated to hold their shape, so they tend to melt thicker. To achieve a thin, smooth coating ideal for dipping, it is highly recommended to add 1 tablespoon of shortening (like Crisco), vegetable oil, or coconut oil. This addition will thin the melted chocolate, making dipping much easier and ensuring a beautifully even, snappy shell.
  • Melting Wafers (Candy Melts): For the easiest and most consistently smooth melting experience, Ghirardelli melting wafers (or similar candy melts) are an excellent choice. They are specifically designed to melt thinly and harden with a smooth, professional finish, making them perfect for dipping without needing additional oil or shortening.
• Peppermint Extract (¾ teaspoon): This is where the “mint” in Thin Mints comes from! The specified amount (¾ teaspoon) generally provides a medium, balanced mint flavor that is very similar to the classic. However, taste preferences vary greatly. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking – add a little less for a subtle hint of mint, or a full teaspoon for an extra potent, refreshing kick. For a truly unique flavor and even more intense mint experience, consider making these with melted Andes mints for a two-in-one chocolate and mint coating.

Step 1: Prepare Your Perfect Mint Chocolate Coating

Begin by melting your chocolate. In a medium-sized, microwave-safe bowl, combine your semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting wafers. If using chocolate chips, and you want that super smooth, thin coating, now is the time to add 1 tablespoon of shortening (such as Crisco Butter Flavor), coconut oil, or vegetable oil. This addition is crucial for thinning out the chocolate, making it much easier to dip and ensuring a crisp, even shell.

Microwave the chocolate mixture at 50% power in 30-second increments. It’s vital to stir the chocolate in between each increment, even if it doesn’t look fully melted at first. The residual heat will continue to melt the chocolate. Continue this process until the chocolate is completely smooth and lump-free. Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract until thoroughly combined. This creates your luscious mint-chocolate coating.

Tip: While shortening is excellent for thinning chocolate without imparting flavor, coconut oil or vegetable oil also work. Just be aware that they might add a very subtle flavor to your chocolate. If using melting wafers, follow the specific melting instructions on their package for best results.

Step 2: Dip and Coat Your Ritz Crackers

Now for the fun part! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This will prevent your Thin Mints from sticking as they harden. Take one Ritz cracker at a time and carefully dip it into the melted mint-chocolate. For the easiest and cleanest dipping, place the cracker on a fork. Submerge it into the chocolate, then use a second fork or a small spoon to gently scoop and coat the top of the cracker, ensuring it’s fully covered.

Lift the cracker out of the chocolate using the fork. Gently tap the fork against the edge of the bowl to allow any excess chocolate to drip off. This step is crucial for achieving a thin, even coating and preventing puddles of chocolate around the base of your finished Thin Mints. Carefully transfer the coated cracker onto your prepared parchment paper.

Tip: Before the chocolate fully hardens, you can carefully move each dipped cracker to a fresh spot on the parchment paper. This helps to eliminate any small “feet” or pools of chocolate that might form around the base, ensuring a crisp, clean edge on your homemade Thin Mints.

Step 3: Decorate and Harden Your Thin Mints

Once all your Ritz crackers are dipped and placed on the parchment paper, you have the option to add some decorative flair. If you have any extra melted chocolate remaining, grab a clean fork and use it to create delicate drizzles over the tops of your still-wet Thin Mints. This adds a beautiful, professional touch.

For a fun and festive look, while the chocolate coating is still glistening and wet, sprinkle your favorite edible sprinkles over the crackers. Rainbow sprinkles, green mint-themed sprinkles, or even a dash of sea salt can add both visual appeal and a delightful texture contrast. Once decorated, allow your homemade Thin Mints to harden completely. You can leave them at room temperature, which will take about 30-60 minutes, or you can pop them into the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes or the freezer for 5-10 minutes to significantly speed up the hardening process. Once firm, they’re ready to be enjoyed!