Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Don’t let the Upside Down seep out of these delicious red velvet cookies. Made to look like the Upside Down cracks from Stranger Things, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any watch party or D&D game. With their vibrant color and rich flavor, Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are perfect for various occasions, including birthdays, movie nights, or simply a fun baking activity with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal steps and ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Appearance: The striking red color and unique design mimic the Upside Down theme, adding a fun twist to your gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: Rich chocolate undertones paired with sweet cookie dough create an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 18 cookies per batch, they’re great for parties or simply sharing with friends and family.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed as a dessert or paired with coffee or tea for a delightful snack.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Medium-sized bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Perfect for evenly mixing ingredients without much effort, saving time and ensuring consistent texture.
• Baking tray: A sturdy surface for placing your cookies while they bake evenly in the oven.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy while providing a non-stick surface for your cookies.

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Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup COLD unsalted butter (cubed)
• 1½ cups granulated white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp red liquid food coloring
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Flour Mixture

• 1 cup cake flour
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

For Coating

• 2 cups crushed Oreo Cookies (cream removed)

How to Make Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 410° degrees F. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve the right texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the cubed cold butter and granulated sugar.
* Use a paddle attachment on low speed for 1 minute to combine.
* Increase the speed to high for another minute, scraping the sides to ensure even blending.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time into the sugar mixture.
* Ensure each egg is completely combined before adding the next.
* Add in the vanilla extract and mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Color and Cocoa

Add the red food coloring and cocoa powder to the mixture.
* Mix on low until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:
* Cake flour
* All-purpose flour
* Baking soda
* Cornstarch
* Salt

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into your wet ingredients in the stand mixer.
* Beat until fully combined, scraping down sides as needed.

Step 7: Chill Cookie Dough

Refrigerate the dough uncovered for about 20 minutes. Chilling helps improve texture.

Step 8: Prepare Crushed Oreos

Place crushed Oreo Cookies in a medium-sized bowl.

Step 9: Form Dough Balls

Using a digital cooking scale, measure out approximately 3.5 oz of cookie dough and form it into a ball.

Step 10: Coat with Oreos

Roll each cookie dough ball into the crushed Oreos.
* Lightly press them into the dough for better adherence.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

Place cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake in the center rack of your oven for about 10-11 minutes.

Step 12: Cool Down

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool on trays before serving. Enjoy your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies!

How to Serve Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Serving your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies can enhance the fun and creativity of your watch party or themed event. Here are some exciting ways to present these delicious treats.

With Milk or Milk Alternatives

• Serve with cold milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a delightful pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

On a Themed Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter decorated with Stranger Things-themed designs like lights or character cutouts, adding a festive touch to your gathering.

As Part of a Dessert Table

• Include the cookies in a dessert table featuring other themed treats, making them an eye-catching centerpiece for your event.

With Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that balances the cookie’s flavor with creaminess.

For Movie Night Snack Packs

• Create individual snack packs by placing two cookies in small bags tied with themed ribbons, making it easy for guests to grab and enjoy during the show.

How to Perfect Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

To achieve the ultimate Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your baking skills.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 20 minutes. This helps maintain shape and enhances texture during baking.
• Use Cold Butter: Start with cold butter to ensure that your cookies have a nice chewy texture rather than spreading too much.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a digital scale to weigh ingredients, especially flour, for consistent results each time you bake.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. This keeps your cookies soft and prevents them from becoming tough.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Bake until just set but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool on the tray.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Complementing your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies with side dishes can create a more enjoyable experience. Here are some tasty suggestions:

1. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of red velvet cookies.
2. Popcorn Bar: Offer various popcorn flavors—like caramel, cheddar, and butter—for guests to mix and match as they enjoy their treats.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers can balance out the sweetness of the cookies while offering savory options.
4. Veggie Cups: Individual cups filled with fresh vegetables and dip add a healthy crunch alongside sweet treats.
5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These sweet and salty snacks are perfect for contrasting flavors when serving red velvet cookies.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Additional bite-sized desserts like mini cupcakes can create variety without overwhelming guests with larger portions.
7. S’mores Station: Set up a s’mores station where guests can toast marshmallows and create their own treats alongside cookies.
8. Homemade Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade or flavored water can cleanse the palate between bites of rich dessert items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid skipping the chilling step. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much while baking.
• Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Beware of using expired ingredients. Check the freshness of your baking soda, cocoa powder, and flour to ensure optimal results.
• Don’t forget the oven temperature. Make sure your oven is preheated to 410°F before placing the cookies in to achieve that perfect bake.
• Avoid crowding the baking tray. Give each cookie enough space (about 3 inches apart) on the tray to allow for spreading during baking.
• Remember to let them cool properly. Allow cookies to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for full cooling.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds; be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan over low heat, covered, for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies special?

These cookies capture the essence of Stranger Things with their vibrant red color and unique Upside Down design, perfect for themed parties!

Can I customize my Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or nuts based on your preference, or even mix in different crushed cookies for added flavor.

How do I achieve the best color for my Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies?

Use high-quality red liquid food coloring, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough for that striking red hue.

Are there any alternatives if I can’t find some ingredients?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends and use dairy-free butter if needed.

Final Thoughts

These Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously soft and chewy. Perfect for any occasion, you can easily customize them with mix-ins or toppings of your choice. Try making them at your next gathering!