【Osawa Yuka Archives】

The Osawa Yuka ArchivesMini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Saturday, January 4, 2025:

Across

Baby polar bear

• The answer is Cub.

Arctic ___, big-eared critters in white winter coats

• The answer is Hares.

Material for Frosty's pipe

• The answer is Corncob.

"I'm fr-fr-freezing!"

• The answer is Brr.

Poem of high praise

• The answer is Ode.

Frosty, e.g.

• The answer is Snowman.

Pigs' digs

• The answer is Sties.

Someone who might give bro hugs?

• The answer is Sis.

Down

Noses for many a 10-Across (but not Frosty's!)

• The answer is Carrots.

Caterer's coffee dispenser

• The answer is Urn.

Turns into

• The answer is Becomes.

Don't confuse them with antlers

• The answer is Horns.

CRUSH, SPRITE, SQUIRT and STARRY, in a Connections category

• The answer is Sodas.

Network that's aired the Grammy Awards since 1973

• The answer is CBS.

___ & Jerry's

• The answer is Ben

GameCub successor

• The answer is Wii

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!Check out our games hubfor Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Mini Crossword.