What Was in the Grid Today?
If you opened the New York Times Mini Crossword on April 8, 2025, you probably found yourself caught between some clever wordplay and deceptively simple clues. Today’s puzzle leaned into everyday language with a fun twist—perfect for both casual solvers and crossword junkies alike.
As always, the Mini delivers a quick mental boost without taking up your whole morning. If you hit a wall, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with gentle nudges and full solutions below.
Hints to Get You Going
Before jumping into the answers, here are a few spoiler-free hints to jog your thinking:
Across Clues:
- 1-Across: Where you might find croissants, muffins, and sourdough.
- 3-Across: What you do when combining batter for pancakes.
- 5-Across: Items you aim for in a bowling alley.
Down Clues:
- 1-Down: Morning essential for millions—often hot and caffeinated.
- 2-Down: Common household pet known for purring.
- 4-Down: The opposite of a “yes.”
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers
Ready for the full solution? Here’s how the grid looked when complete:
Across:
- 1-Across: BAKERY
- 3-Across: MIX
- 5-Across: PINS
Down:
- 1-Down: COFFEE
- 2-Down: CAT
- 4-Down: NO
Short, sharp, and satisfying.
Why Solving the Mini Is More Than a Game
Beyond being a fun brain teaser, studies show that daily puzzles can improve cognitive flexibility, boost memory retention, and reduce stress. Even just a 5×5 grid like the NYT Mini offers a powerful mental reset during your day.
Today’s clues leaned on familiar vocabulary, but the beauty of the Mini is how it challenges your brain with subtle misdirections and wordplay. That’s what keeps loyal solvers coming back every morning.
Final Thoughts
April 8’s puzzle was all about everyday concepts—simple on the surface, but tricky enough to make you think twice. If you finished in under two minutes, you’re in elite company. If not? No worries. There’s always tomorrow.
Keep checking in daily for new puzzles and solutions, and consider pairing it with your morning cup of—well, COFFEE (1-Down, anyone?).
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