How to Make the Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies from Scratch
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re a fan of the iconic Girl Scout Cookies, then you’re in for a treat. Today, I’ll be sharing with you my gluten-free and vegan take on the beloved Thin Mints.
Are you ready for some delicious, guilt-free treats? My homemade Thin Mints are made without any dairy or gluten, making them perfect for people with dietary restrictions or health-conscious eaters. Unlike store-bought cookies that are loaded with preservatives, my Thin Mints contain only wholesome and natural ingredients.
In creating this recipe, I drew inspiration from some of the best gluten-free and vegan bakers out there, like Minimalist Baker and Salted Plains. And after much experimentation and testing, I’m excited to share with you my version of these minty chocolate delights.
So let’s get baking! Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet snack or looking to impress friends and family, my gluten-free and vegan Thin Mints will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of Girl Scout Thin Mints but wish they were gluten-free and vegan-friendly? Then, this recipe is just perfect for you!
First, let me tell you why you’ll love this recipe. These thin mint cookies are not only delicious, but they are also free from gluten and dairy. Even if you’re not following a specific diet, these cookies offer a guilt-free way to satisfy your cravings. You can indulge in them without worrying about the adverse effects on your health.
This homemade thin mint cookie recipe uses healthy ingredients like almond flour, sorghum flour, and arrowroot. These ingredients are nutrient-dense and provide several health benefits. Furthermore, this recipe incorporates the goodness of coconut oil, which is known for its immune-boosting properties.
These vegan gluten-free thin mints are easy to make and require only a few basic pantry staples. Even if you’re not an expert baker, you can try your hand at these cookies without feeling overwhelmed. Moreover, this recipe is customizable to fit your taste preferences. You can even substitute vodka with peppermint extract or add some chocolate chips to give it a twist.
One of the best parts of making these thin mint cookies at home is that they cost much less than buying them from stores. Additionally, you can make a large batch and store them in an airtight container to enjoy later.
In conclusion, there are plenty of reasons why you’ll love this gluten-free vegan thin mints recipe. It’s healthy, delicious, and easy to make. So clear up some counter space and start baking these scrumptious treats today!
Ingredient List
Let’s dive into the gluten-free vegan Thin Mints ingredient list. We will need sorghum flour, arrowroot, and almond flour which are gluten-free alternatives to traditional wheat flour. To add richness and texture to our cookies, we will use shortening and vegan margarine instead of butter. In place of regular milk, we’ll make use of soymilk as a vegan option along with a dash of vodka that helps in producing a flaky crust. Both brown and white sugar come together to sweeten our cookies while unsweetened cocoa powder adds an indulgent chocolatey flavor. We will also be using some coconut oil and unsalted butter for volume, alongside pure vanilla, and peppermint extract to give our Thin Mints that signature taste. For the garment coating, a combination of semisweet chocolate chips and bittersweet chocolate is used to create an irresistible chocolate coating for the cookies. Gather up these ingredients before moving on to the next input!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have our ingredients lined up, it’s time to start baking these gluten-free vegan Thin Mints! Follow these simple steps to make your own deliciously minty cookies:
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together sorghum flour, arrowroot, cocoa powder, and almond flour until evenly blended. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Vegan Margarine with Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to blend the vegan margarine with both brown sugar and white sugar until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and soymilk into your mixture. Beat everything together until it is evenly combined.
Step 4: Slowly Add in The Dry Ingredients
At this point, you’ll want to add in small portions of the dry ingredients blend (from step 1) into your wet mix. Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon and gently fold everything together.
Step 5: Refrigerate Dough for an Hour
Once all of the dry ingredients have been added to the bowl, mix everything gently for few seconds more then form dough into a round shape. Wrap it in some parchment paper and place it in the refrigerator on an even surface for one hour. By doing so, you are giving time to firm up so you can properly roll your dough.
Step 6 : Roll Out The Dough & Cut Circles
After an hour has passed remove the dough from the fridge/unrefrigerator it. Take out about two sheets of parchment paper and place them on opposite sides of your cookie dough, and use a rolling pin to roll out your dough. The thickness should be about 1/4 inch.
Take your Cookie Cutter and cut round cookies if you don’t have this shape, take any shape of your choice but make sure the size is reasonable.
Step 7 : Bake The Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Take a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your cookies at a distance of one inch. Keep it in the preheated oven for 12 minutes. Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool down on a rack.
Step 8: Coat the Cookies with Bittersweet Chocolate
Melt bittersweet chocolate by using stove over low-medium heat or microwave. If microwaving do it by checking every 10 seconds and repeating until it melts completely then Mix in coconut oil (or any vegan shortening) and peppermint extract. Mix everything until smooth while cooling slightly.
Step 9: Dip and Cool
Once you are done with melting and mixing chocolate, use a fork or dipping tools to dip each cooled cookie gently into melted
Substitutions and Variations
One of the greatest things about this gluten-free vegan recipe for thin mints is that it’s easily customizable to fit your dietary needs and personal preferences. Here are some possible substitutions and variations you can make:
– Shortening: If you prefer not to use shortening, you can try using coconut oil instead. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
– Brown Sugar: Instead of brown sugar, you could use maple syrup or coconut sugar. These sweeteners will change the flavor profile slightly, but they are still delicious.
– Sorghum Flour: if you don’t have sorghum flour on hand, you can substitute it for almond flour or rice flour. The texture might be a little different, but it won’t affect the overall taste of the cookies.
– Gluten-Free: Thin Mints are typically made with all-purpose flour and may not be gluten-free. This recipe uses sorghum flour to make them gluten-free. If you don’t need to avoid gluten, feel free to swap sorghum flour with all-purpose flour.
– Peppermint Extract: While peppermint extract is a key ingredient in Thin Mints recipe, You can also experiment with alternatives like almond extract, orange extract, or vanilla extract depending upon your preference.
These suggested substitutions will give the homemade Thin Mints cookie recipe a unique twist as per your liking while still maintaining their rich, minty chocolate flavor without compromising on their gluten-free and vegan labeling. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find what works best for you!
Serving and Pairing
Once your gluten-free and vegan thin mints are ready, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy! These tasty treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while also staying true to your dietary needs.
One great way to serve up these cookies is by pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The minty flavor of the cookies complements the beverage and can provide a perfect balance to the sweetness of the cookie.
Another fun idea is to crumble the thin mints over a bowl of ice cream or frozen yogurt, giving it an extra kick of mint and chocolate flavor. You could also use these cookies for a DIY ice cream sandwich with your favorite dairy-free ice cream brand.
For those who like to experiment in the kitchen, you could even use these thin mints in other recipes. Crush them up and sprinkle on top of vegan chocolate cupcakes for an extra treat. Or use them as a crust for a dairy-free cheesecake recipe. Get creative and see what amazing creations you can come up with!
No matter how you choose to serve them, these gluten-free and vegan thin mints will be sure to satisfy any craving for something sweet without sacrificing any dietary requirements.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about these gluten-free vegan Thin Mints is that they can be made ahead of time and stored for later consumption. To make them ahead of time, simply follow the recipe instructions and let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. These cookies should last up to a week at room temperature or up to a month in the freezer.
When reheating these cookies, it is recommended that you allow them to come to room temperature first before serving. This will help ensure that they retain their crisp texture and chocolatey flavor profile. You can also heat the cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.
If you plan on storing these gluten-free vegan Thin Mints for longer than a week, it is important to take extra precautions to prevent them from becoming stale or losing their flavor. Storing them in a cool, dry place such as your refrigerator or freezer will help prevent them from spoiling.
Overall, these gluten-free vegan Thin Mints are perfect for those looking for an easy-to-store and convenient dessert option. With simple instructions on how to make and store them effectively, you can enjoy the delicious taste of Thin Mints all year round!
Tips for Perfect Results
Creating a perfect batch of gluten-free vegan Thin Mint cookies can be challenging, especially if you’re making them for the first time. But with a few tips and tricks, your cookies will come out perfectly every time. Here are some tips that will help you make perfect vegan Thin Mints.
1. Use quality ingredients:
Make sure you use quality ingredients such as pure vanilla extract, unsweetened cocoa powder, and bittersweet chocolate for the coating. This will give your cookies a rich and deep chocolatey flavor.
2. Pay attention to measurements:
It’s important to measure your ingredients precisely. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy, especially when it comes to gluten-free flours such as sorghum flour and almond flour.
3. Chill the dough:
Chilling the dough before rolling and cutting it into shapes will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking. It will also make the dough easier to handle.
4. Don’t overwork the dough:
Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies. Kneading or mixing the dough too much can develop excess gluten, which can result in tough cookies.
5. Keep the temperature constant:
Maintaining a consistent oven temperature is vital for any baking recipe, including vegan Thin Mints. Use an accurate oven thermometer to ensure that your oven is at the right temperature throughout the baking process.
6. Use parchment paper:
To prevent sticking and ensure even baking, use parchment paper instead of greasing or spraying your baking sheet with oil.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make perfect vegan Thin Mints every time – crispy on the outside with a cool mint flavor and rich chocolate coating inside!
FAQ
Now that you have the recipe for these delicious gluten-free and vegan Thin Mints cookies, you may have a few questions before getting started in the kitchen. Fear not! I have compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) to help you navigate any doubts or uncertainties. From ingredient substitutions to ingredient measurements and cooking methods, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the FAQ section of this recipe article.
Are Thin Mints gluten and dairy-free?
One of the most popular cookies, Thin Mints, has become vegan-friendly by eliminating all dairy ingredients in its production process. Enjoy them even more by freezing them for a refreshing treat. It’s worth noting that both bakery suppliers now use only vegan ingredients to make these delightful cookies.
Are Girl Scout Thin Mints gluten-free?
Although the Girl Scouts provide two cookie options free of gluten, a protein commonly found in wheat, oats, barley, and rye, I have to admit that, unfortunately, they don’t quite live up to the deliciousness of Thin Mints or Tagalongs.
Which Girl Scout cookies are vegan and gluten-free?
Looking for some cookie options that are gluten-free or vegan? You might want to check out the Toffee-tastic and Caramel Chocolate Chip cookies if you’re avoiding gluten. And if you’re looking for vegan options, you might like to try some Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Lemonades, or Toast-Yay cookies.
Are Thin Mints vegan friendly?
If you’re looking to indulge in some Thin Mints cookies and wondering whether they are vegan or not, know that Thin Mints are always vegan, regardless of their supplier or manufacturer. However, other cookies that appear to be similar in taste and appearance may not always be vegan. It’s important to check if your local Girl Scout troop sources their cookies from ABC Bakers before you make a purchase.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Gluten Free Vegan Thin Mints Recipe is a delicious and healthier alternative to the classic Girl Scout Thin Mints that we all love. With its gluten-free and vegan ingredients, you can indulge in these cookies without any guilt or worries about potential allergens. Additionally, the ease of making this recipe makes it perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy dessert option.
By trying this recipe, you not only get to enjoy delicious cookies but also contribute positively to your overall health and well-being. Remember, healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or indulgences – it’s all about finding the right balance.
So why not give this recipe a try? You won’t be disappointed! Need more convincing? Check out the amazing reviews left by previous bakers who have tried this recipe. Also, don’t forget to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it suit your preferences.
With this Gluten-Free Vegan Thin Mints Recipe, you’ll be able to satisfy your sweet-tooth cravings while staying true to your dietary requirements or lifestyle choice. So what are you waiting for? Get baking!
Gluten Free Vegan Thin Mints Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup sorghum flour
- 1/4 cup millet flour
- 1/4 cup sweet rice flour
- 1/4 cup arrowroot
- 7 tablespoons dark unsweetened cocoa, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegan margarine, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soymilk or 3 tablespoons rice milk
- 5 tablespoons vodka
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
- 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate
- 1 tablespoon shortening
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together flours, starch, cocoa powder and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together margarine, shortening and sugars.
- Add soymilk, vodka and extracts. The mixture will look curdled.
- Gradually, add in the flour mixture until fully incorporated.
- Shape dough into two logs, about 1 1/2” in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 1-2 hours, until dough is very firm.
- Preheat oven to 375F, line baking sheets with parchment or silicone.
- Slice dough into rounds not more than 1/4” thick – otherwise they will not be crisp.
- Place on the sheets fairly close together – they don’t spread that much.
- Bake 14 – 15 minutes.
- Cool cookies completely on a wire rack before dipping in chocolate.
- Combine chocolate and shortening in a double boiler over simmering water.
- Melt until chocolate is smooth. Stir in the extract.
- Dip each cookie in melted chocolate and transfer to a wire rack set over a piece of wax paper to set up for at least 30 minutes – 1 hour.