Junior Mints aren’t so junior anymore. The minty candy, now manufactured by Chicago’s Tootsie Roll Industries, just finished celebrating its 50th anniversary in 1999.
Junior always has had theatrical roots, and not just because it has long been a favorite at movie theaters. Creator James Welch named it after a Broadway hit of the day, “Junior Miss.” Few remember that show now, but millions are familiar with the candy’s supporting role on a “Seinfeld” episode. (Kramer accidentally dropped one in a patient undergoing surgery.)
Anyway, to kick off the next 50 years, here’s an easy Junior Mint chocolate sauce that can star on a bowl of ice cream: Combine 1 cup Junior Mints (about 6 ounces) with 1 tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoons milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Cook on high 1 minute, or until the mixture is hot. Stir until sauce is smooth. (Alternately, you can heat this mixture in a small saucepan over low heat.) The sauce will thicken as its sets. It makes about 2/3 cup.
