NYT Mini Crossword Answers Today [01/27/2026]

Got stuck on today’s NYT Mini Crossword? Don’t worry, you’ll find all the answers you need right here, along with clues to help you out. We all know how a full crossword can take up so much of our time. That’s exactly why the NYT introduced the mini version, it’s just the right size for a quick puzzle fix.

This mini puzzle usually has a small 5×5 grid with fun hints that might make you smile or think a bit harder. But, the New York Times has started to make the Saturday puzzle a little tougher by adding a few more hints than usual. Even with this change, it’s still a great way to give your brain a quick workout every day. Let’s see today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers.

Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers: Jan 27, 2026

Across

Clues	Answers
1 Bit of clothing for a snowman	SCARF
6 “___ is just another defense against the universe”: Mel Brooks	HUMOR
7 Say without saying	IMPLY
8 River whose basin spans 11 countries	NILE
9 Opposite of WSW	ENE

DOWN

Clues	Answers
1 Excel	SHINE
2 Spice in curry powder	CUMIN
3 More than enough	AMPLE
4 Queen Elizabeth I or II, for Helen Mirren	ROLE
5 Cook in oil	FRY

Why Did the NYT Start the Mini Crossword?

After we’ve sorted out today’s puzzle, you might wonder, why did the NYT start the Mini Crossword? It’s a fascinating story. The New York Times recognized that not everyone had the time or inclination for their traditional, longer crossword puzzles. In our fast-paced world, many people look for quick, engaging puzzle that fit into their busy schedules.

This shorter version of the classic crossword is perfect for a digital audience, offering instant satisfaction and a daily mental workout without the commitment of the full-size puzzle. It’s also a brilliant way for newcomers to dip their toes into the world of crosswords, providing a stepping stone to more challenging puzzles.

There are more Puzzle with solutions:

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