Name: Ritz Thin Mints Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 40
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 40 Ritz crackers; 16 oz chocolate; ½ tsp Peppermint Extract; ½ tsp Vegetable Oil

These delightful thin mints are a perfect blend of savoury Ritz crackers and refreshing peppermint chocolate. They are the perfect sweet treat to satisfy your after-dinner dessert cravings or to serve at a party. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, these thin mints will surely be a hit.

Photos of Ritz Thin Mints Recipe

The ingredients used in this recipe are quite common and most likely already in your pantry. However, you might need to pick up a few items for this recipe. Ensure you have enough Ritz crackers at home, as they form the base of this treat. You'll also need to grab some peppermint extract from the baking aisle. It gives our thin mints that classic, refreshing flavor.

Ritz Thin Mints Ingredients

Ritz crackers: These buttery, round crackers serve as the base of our thin mints. Slightly salty and perfectly crunchy, they balance the sweetness of the chocolate.

Chocolate: We'll be melting this down for our minty coating. Any variety works, but semi-sweet or dark chocolate will give a richer flavor.

Peppermint extract: This is the star flavor of our thin mints. It infuses our chocolate coating with a refreshing, minty taste.

Vegetable oil: This helps our chocolate melt smoothly and evenly. It also gives our coating a glossy finish.

One reader, Arney Perea says:

This Ritz Thin Mints recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the buttery Ritz crackers with the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is simply divine. It's so easy to make and tastes just like the real thing. I can't get enough of these addictive treats!

Arney Perea

Techniques Required for Making Ritz Thin Mints

How to melt chocolate: Gently melt the chocolate and vegetable oil in a bowl placed over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Then, stir in the peppermint extract.

How to dip crackers: Carefully dip each Ritz cracker into the melted chocolate mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.

How to refrigerate: Place the dipped crackers on a parchment-lined pan and refrigerate until the chocolate coating is set and cooled.

How To Make Ritz Thin Mints

It’s amazing how mildly salty Ritz crackers can complement the decadent sweetness from the chocolate and a minty after taste. Try out our thin mints recipe.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

40Ritz crackers
16ozchocolate
½tsppeppermint extract
½tspvegetable oilor coconut oil

Instructions

Place chocolate and vegetable oil in a bowl. Place the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water Stir gently until melted. Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract.
Dip crackers into the chocolate mixture and allow excess to drip off.
Place on a parchment-lined pan and refrigerate until cooled.

Nutrition

Calories: 71.19kcal
Fat: 4.23g
Saturated Fat: 2.20g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.48g
Carbohydrates: 9.34g
Fiber: 0.75g
Sugar: 6.45g
Protein: 0.72g
Sodium: 30.36mg
Calcium: 8.73mg
Potassium: 45.36mg
Iron: 0.50mg
Vitamin A: 0.01µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Ritz Thin Mints

When melting the chocolate, ensure the water in the pot is just simmering and not boiling. Too much heat can cause the chocolate to seize up and become grainy. Also, when dipping the ritz crackers into the chocolate, use a fork to help shake off the excess chocolate. This will give your mints a smooth, professional appearance.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Ritz Thin Mints

Plan ahead: Pre-measure all ingredients and lay them out in the order they will be used. This will help you work more efficiently and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Use pre-made ingredients: Consider using pre-made items like store-bought pie crusts or pre-chopped vegetables to cut down on prep time.

Multi-task: Look for steps in the recipe where you can simultaneously prepare other components, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes.

Substitute Ingredients For Ritz Thin Mints Recipe

ritz crackers - Substitute with saltine crackers: Saltine crackers have a similar texture and flavor to Ritz crackers, making them a suitable substitute for this recipe.
chocolate - Substitute with candy melts: Candy melts are a good alternative to chocolate as they are specifically designed for melting and coating, and come in a variety of colors and flavors.
peppermint extract - Substitute with mint extract: Mint extract can be used as a substitute for peppermint extract, providing a similar minty flavor to the recipe.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the recipe.

Presenting Your Ritz Thin Mints

Elevate the plating: Arrange the Ritz Thin Mints in a circular pattern on a sleek, modern plate, ensuring each piece is meticulously placed for a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the plate with delicate edible flowers to add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to the dish.
Add a dusting of cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with cocoa powder to create a sophisticated and artistic element, enhancing the visual appeal of the Ritz Thin Mints.
Serve with a side of fresh berries: Accompany the Ritz Thin Mints with a selection of seasonal fresh berries to provide a refreshing contrast and balance to the rich chocolate flavor.
Drizzle with a chocolate ganache: Create an intricate drizzle of decadent chocolate ganache on the plate, adding a luxurious and professional touch to the presentation of the Ritz Thin Mints.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style, focusing on clean lines and precise placement to highlight the simplicity and elegance of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Ritz Thin Mints

Mixing bowl: A large, round bowl used for mixing ingredients together, such as batters, doughs, and salads.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, such as eggs, sauces, and batters.
Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients, such as frosting, batter, and dough.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
Double boiler: A set of two nested pans used to create a gentle, indirect heat for melting chocolate, making custards, and delicate sauces.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients in cooking and baking recipes.
Piping bag with tip: A cone-shaped bag with a nozzle used for piping frosting, icing, and other decorative elements onto baked goods.
Offset spatula: A long, narrow spatula with a bent handle used for spreading and smoothing frosting on cakes and other desserts.
Cooling rack: A metal rack used for cooling baked goods, allowing air to circulate around the food to prevent sogginess.

Storing and Freezing Your Ritz Thin Mints

Once the chocolate has set and the crackers are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors from your refrigerator.
If you plan to keep the Ritz thin mints for an extended period, consider storing them in the freezer. Place the cooled crackers in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
When stored properly in the refrigerator, your Ritz thin mints should remain fresh and delicious for up to 2 weeks. If you opt for freezer storage, they can last for several months.
To thaw frozen Ritz thin mints, simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to defrost gradually. This method will help prevent condensation from forming on the chocolate surface, which can cause discoloration or a slightly sticky texture.
For optimal flavor and texture, allow the Ritz thin mints to come to room temperature before serving. This will ensure that the chocolate is smooth and the crackers are crisp, providing the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Random Fact About Ritz Thin Mints

Ritz Thin Mints are a delicious and easy treat to make for any occasion. They are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth and can be made in just a few simple steps.

Is Making Ritz Thin Mints at Home Cost-Effective?

This recipe is quite cost-effective for a household, as the ingredients are relatively affordable and easily accessible. The use of simple and basic ingredients like crackers and chocolate makes it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-15, making it an economical choice for a sweet treat. Rating: 8/10.

Are Ritz Thin Mints Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Ritz Thin Mints recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

High in calories: With 40 Ritz crackers and 16 oz of chocolate, this recipe is likely to be high in calories, especially if consumed in large quantities.
Refined carbohydrates: Ritz crackers are made from refined flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
Saturated fat: Depending on the type of chocolate used (milk or dark), the recipe may contain a significant amount of saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.
Added sugars: Chocolate often contains added sugars, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues when consumed in large amounts.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole grain crackers instead of Ritz crackers to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa percentage (70% or above) to reduce the amount of added sugars and increase the antioxidant content
Reduce the amount of chocolate used in the recipe to decrease the calorie and fat content
Experiment with alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit to reduce the amount of added sugars
Incorporate more peppermint extract to enhance the flavor without adding extra calories or sugar
Enjoy the Ritz Thin Mints in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Treat

This recipe for Ritz Thin Mints is a delightful and simple treat. The combination of the salty Ritz crackers with the rich, smooth chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for a quick and delicious dessert. The end result is a crunchy, chocolatey, and minty treat that is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether for a special occasion or a casual snack, these Ritz Thin Mints are a delightful indulgence.

Enhance Your Ritz Thin Mints Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Try serving the Ritz Thin Mints with a side of garlic parmesan roasted asparagus for a savory and crunchy contrast.

Honey Glazed Carrots: For a touch of sweetness, pair the Ritz Thin Mints with honey glazed carrots to balance out the rich chocolate flavor.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Add a tropical twist to the Ritz Thin Mints by serving them with grilled pineapple skewers for a refreshing and fruity accompaniment.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Ritz Thin Mints

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting classic that is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich flavors of tomato and basil come together in a velvety smooth texture that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavor.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: This fresh fruit salad with honey-lime dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is bursting with juicy flavors. The sweet and tangy dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits, creating a delightful and healthy dessert option.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Ritz Thin Mints

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful herbs, and earthy mushrooms will leave everyone wanting more.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is the perfect appetizer to kick off any meal. The rich flavors and gooey texture will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Savor the delicate flavors of grilled salmon, paired with a refreshing citrus salad and a drizzle of tangy vinaigrette. The perfect balance of light and satisfying, this dish is sure to impress any seafood lover.

Beef Stir Fry: Indulge in the savory goodness of tender beef stir-fried with an array of colorful vegetables, all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. This quick and easy dish is a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.

Why trust this Ritz Thin Mints Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted favorite among many home cooks. The combination of ritz crackers and rich, smooth chocolate creates a delightful treat. The addition of peppermint extract adds a refreshing twist, elevating the flavor profile. The use of high-quality ingredients ensures a satisfying and indulgent experience. With a simple and straightforward method, this recipe is accessible to all levels of home cooks. The end result is a delicious and irresistible snack that will surely impress family and friends.

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FAQ:

How long do I need to refrigerate the Ritz Thin Mints?

Refrigerate the Ritz Thin Mints for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has set and hardened.

Can I use any type of chocolate for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you prefer, whether it's dark, milk, or white chocolate.

Can I substitute the peppermint extract with fresh mint?

While fresh mint can be used, it may not provide the same intensity of flavor as peppermint extract. If using fresh mint, consider steeping it in the melted chocolate to infuse the flavor.

How should I store the Ritz Thin Mints?

Store the Ritz Thin Mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crispness.

Can I use a different type of cracker instead of Ritz crackers?

Yes, you can use other types of crackers, such as saltines or butter crackers, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture of the final product.