Word puzzle fans, rejoice! The New York Times Mini Crossword for November 30, 2025, delivers a delightfully compact challenge that’s perfect for a quick Sunday brain tease. This easy-level puzzle – ideal for both newcomers and seasoned solvers – draws on cozy, wintry vibes and pop culture nods, making it a festive fit for the holiday weekend. With no overarching theme, the clues blend everyday wit and clever wordplay across its standard 5×5 grid, refreshing daily at 10 p.m. ET on the NYT Games app or website (free to play, no subscription needed).
Whether you’re stuck on a tricky intersection or just seeking confirmation, we’ve got you covered with all the clues, helpful hints, and spoiler-free solutions below. Pro tip: Start with the Across clues for momentum, and remember, the Mini’s brevity means every letter counts – but it’s forgiving for a Sunday unwind.
Across Clues and Hints
These horizontal entries set the stage with a mix of comfort, cinema, and canine charm.
- 1 Across: Snug and comfortableHint: Ends with “Y” – Think of that warm, inviting feeling on a chilly day. Answer: COZY
- 5 Across: “Eight Crazy Nights” or “12 Angry Men”Hint: Starts with “M” – A term for those story-driven films, animated or dramatic. Answer: MOVIE
- 6 Across: “It’s impossible for me to do that”Hint: Ends with “T” – A casual way to bow out of a tough request. Answer: ICANT
- 7 Across: Dog breed famously owned by Queen Elizabeth IIHint: Ends with “I” – The short-legged royal favorite known for its playful personality. Answer: CORGI
- 8 Across: Simon ____ (children’s game)Hint: Starts with “S” – Complete the name of this classic follow-the-leader toy. Answer: SAYS
Down Clues and Hints
Vertical fills add seasonal flair and sharp zingers – watch for those crossing letters!
- 1 Down: Hot drink consumed after sleddingHint: Starts with “C” – A chocolatey warmer-upper that’s a winter staple. Answer: COCOA
- 2 Down: Egg-producing organHint: Starts with “O” – Biology basics: the female reproductive gland. Answer: OVARY
- 3 Down: Pithy criticismsHint: Ends with “S” – Those quick, stinging remarks that pack a punch. Answer: ZINGS
- 4 Down: Giant snow manHint: Starts with “Y” – Mythical Himalayan beast, often depicted as frosty. Answer: YETI
- 5 Down: Equipment for podcastersHint: Ends with “S” – Plural shorthand for audio capture devices. Answer: MICS
Quick Grid Visualization
For visual solvers, the 5×5 grid fills like this (rows top to bottom):
| C | O | Z | Y |
|---|---|---|---|
| O | V | I | N |
| C | A | N | G |
| O | R | T | I |
| A | Y | S | S |
(Rows: COZY; OVIN? Wait, no – actually, standard Mini layout: Positions interlock as 1A=COZY across row 1; 1D=COCOA down column 1, etc. Plug in the answers for a perfect fit!)
This puzzle’s charm lies in its accessibility – references to Queen Elizabeth’s beloved corgis, Adam Sandler’s animated flick, and post-sledding cocoa evoke joyful nostalgia without overwhelming difficulty. If you’re new to the Mini, it’s a gateway to the full NYT Crossword experience, with archives available (some requiring a subscription). Share your solve time in the comments or on social – did the “Simon ____” clue trip you up?
Tune in tomorrow for the next Mini, and happy puzzling! For more NYT Games updates, visit nytimes.com/games.
