27D. I thought that the [Stick by a fireplace] might be a poker, but my crossings told me I was wrong. (Yes, my puzzle talks to me — what of it?) In this puzzle, the stick is a MATCH.

The NYT Mini Crossword has become a favourite for puzzle lovers seeking a quick brain challenge each day. On August 15, 2025, the puzzle includes a mix of fun and tricky clues, including a two-part clue about a tree with long cones. For both seasoned ...

25,269 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?25,269 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?

Finally, in this puzzle from May 27, every Across answer in this puzzle is thematic. It took the most time to make of any Mini this year, because of all of the constraints on the Down answers. But after a couple days of fruitless effort, I happened upon this configuration, much to my delight. — Joel Fagliano