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Coffee-Themed Puzzle Challenges Solvers with Unique Words

1/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

The New York Times Strands puzzle for January 1, 2026 features a coffee-themed "Not your average joe" challenge that asks solvers to find words fitting the theme, including the spangram COFFEE.
Hints unlock by spotting four-letter-or-more words such as SORT, BOLT, and GENT.
The completed grid includes answers like BOLD, NUTTY, and SMOOTH.
Recent tough puzzles have included themes like "Dated slang" and "Thar she blows!" that require specific knowledge.

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Story summary

The New York Times Strands puzzle for January 1, 2026 features a coffee-themed "Not your average joe" challenge that asks solvers to find words fitting the theme, including the spangram COFFEE.
Hints unlock by spotting four-letter-or-more words such as SORT, BOLT, and GENT.
The completed grid includes answers like BOLD, NUTTY, and SMOOTH.
Recent tough puzzles have included themes like "Dated slang" and "Thar she blows!" that require specific knowledge.