The NYT Mini Crossword delivers a fresh set of clues each day, and the puzzle for January 22, 2026 was no exception. Readers were treated to a handful of short, punchy clues that lead to a handful of surprising answers.
At a Glance
- Date: January 22, 2026
- Across clues: 5
- Down clues: 6
- Notable theme: an ice cream flavor hidden across two clues
Puzzle Overview
The puzzle grid is a compact 5-by-5 layout, typical of the mini version. Across entries run from 1A to 9A, while down entries run from 1D to 6D. The final grid is shown in the accompanying screenshot.
Across Clues
1A. When doubled, a breed of dog – Answer: CHOW. The clue hints at a dog breed that can be repeated.
5A. With 7-Across, Ben & Jerry’s flavor named for a rock legend – Answer: CHERRY. The flavor combines a fruit with a musician’s name.
7A. See 5-Across – Answer: GARCIA. This clue directs solvers to the previous answer.
8A. “Whatever you decide is good with me” – Answer: IMEASY. The phrase plays on a common expression.
9A. Whispered sound from a test cheater – Answer: PSST. The clue describes a quiet exclamation.
Down Clues
1D. Tournament victor – Answer: CHAMP. A champion is the winner of a competition.
2D. “___ the scoop …” – Answer: HERES. The phrase is a play on words.
3D. Killer whales – Answer: ORCAS. The marine mammals are known by this name.
4D. Place for a bracelet – Answer: WRIST. A wrist is a common bracelet holder.
5D. Tech used for many of the ping-pong scenes in “Marty Supreme” – Answer: CGI. Computer-generated imagery is often used in film.
6D. “Woo-hoo!” – Answer: YAY. An exclamation of excitement.
Puzzle Highlights
The across clues weave a subtle narrative, linking a dog breed to a Ben & Jerry’s flavor. The down clues provide quick, familiar answers that fit neatly into the grid. Together they create a cohesive, bite-size puzzle.
Puzzle Themes
A favorite ice cream flavor is spread across two clues, creating a hidden link. The Ben & Jerry’s reference ties the theme to popular culture. The puzzle’s brevity keeps the theme focused.
Puzzle Features
The grid is compact, with each letter fitting neatly into a 5-by-5 square. Cross-referencing clues (7A to 5A) add an extra layer of challenge. The puzzle’s design encourages quick, satisfying solving.
Puzzle References
Readers can find additional hints on the News Of Los Angeles‘s NYT puzzle hints page. The article also links to daily answers for Wordle, Connections, and other New York Times puzzles. A screenshot of the completed grid is included.
Key Takeaways
The 2026 puzzle showcases the classic mini format: short clues, quick answers, and a subtle theme. Its concise layout makes it ideal for on-the-go solving. Fans can revisit the grid anytime through the provided screenshot.
Puzzle Clue Count
- Across clues: 5
- Down clues: 6
- Total clues: 11
Puzzle Answer List
- CHOW
- CHERRY
- GARCIA
- IMEASY
- PSST
- CHAMP
- HERES
- ORCAS
- WRIST
- CGI
- YAY
Puzzle Screenshot
The article includes a visual representation of the completed puzzle, showing how each answer fits into the grid. This image helps solvers verify their solutions.
Puzzle Community
The puzzle invites daily participation, and the article encourages readers to visit the hints page for additional guidance. Community engagement is fostered through shared solutions and discussion.
Puzzle Answer Themes
The answers range from animal references to technology, offering a mix of familiar and playful words. This diversity keeps the puzzle engaging for a wide audience.
Puzzle Clue Highlights
- 1A: CHOW – a dog breed
- 5A: CHERRY – a Ben & Jerry’s flavor
- 8A: IMEASY – a phrase
- 1D: CHAMP – a tournament victor
- 6D: YAY – an exclamation
