**The Mini Crossword: A Quick and Enjoyable Puzzle Experience**

[The Mini](https://www.nytimes.com/crosswords/game/mini) is a condensed iteration of *The New York Times*’ celebrated daily crossword. In contrast to the conventional crossword, which requires time, perseverance, and extensive knowledge, The Mini provides a quicker, more digestible experience with a wholly distinct atmosphere.

Featuring only a handful of clues to tackle, The Mini has turned into a daily speed test for numerous solvers. Yet, encountering a challenging clue can swiftly throw off your groove, resulting in annoyance. If you find yourself at an impasse — similar to [Wordle](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-december-19-2024) or [Connections](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-december-19-2024) — don’t fret, we’re here to help.

—

### Clues and Answers for NYT’s The Mini Crossword (Thursday, December 19, 2024)

#### **Across**
– **Typical Christmas cookie cutter form**
Answer: **Bell**

– **Solo vocal performances in opera**
Answer: **Arias**

– **Character in “Forrest Gump” who refers to shrimp as “the fruit of the sea”**
Answer: **Bubba**

– **Clothing for a baker**
Answer: **Apron**

– **Another standard Christmas cookie cutter form**
Answer: **Star**

—

### **SEE ALSO:**
[Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)

—

#### **Down**
– **Cakes soaked in rum**
Answer: **Babas**

– **Release lava**
Answer: **Erupt**

– **Astrological sign linked with justice**
Answer: **Libra**

– **What a doula may assist you with**
Answer: **Labor**

– **___ Francisco**
Answer: **San**

—

In search of additional puzzles? [Mashable’s Games Hub](https://games.mashable.com/) offers Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and much more.

—

### Featured Video: The Wordle Strategy Employed by the New York Times’ Head of Games

—

### Bonus Tips for Puzzle Enthusiasts:
– **Playing NYT Strands?** [Explore today’s hints and solutions for Strands](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-19).
– **Missed yesterday’s Mini Crossword?** [Locate the answer here](https://mashable.com/article/daily-mini-crossword-clues-answers-december-18).

Happy puzzling!