### How to Make Copycat Thin Mint Cookies: A Delicious Recipe
Are you craving those classic Girl Scout Thin Mints but can't find them in your local store? Making your own copycat Thin Mints at home is easier than you might think! Follow these detailed steps and tips for creating the perfect batch of thin mint cookies that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
#### Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (for the mint flavor)
#### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Set this mixture aside in a separate location so it’s ready when you’re done with the wet ingredients.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:**
- In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and egg to the mixture, then beat until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Fold in Chocolate Chips:**
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips by hand or with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. **Shape Cookies:**
- Use a cookie scoop (around 1 tablespoon) to measure out your dough and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Space cookies about an inch apart as they will spread slightly during baking.
6. **Bake and Cool:**
- Place in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look a little soft.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. **Enjoy Your Copycat Thin Mints:**
- Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Serve as is, with milk, or enjoy with a cup of hot chocolate for the full Girl Scout experience!
#### Tips and Variations:
- **Flavor Enhancement:** For extra mint flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla in step 3. This can help capture that classic Thin Mint taste.
- **Dough Storage:** If you find yourself making too much dough, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before baking.
By following these detailed steps and tips, you’ll be able to make delicious copycat Thin Mints right from your kitchen. Perfect them for a Girl Scout cookie swap or just enjoy them with family and friends. Happy baking!
**Keywords:** Copycat Thin Mint Cookies, Thin Mints recipe, homemade Thin Mints, Girl Scout cookies, mint flavored cookies