Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Don’t let the Upside Down seep out of these delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies. These cookies are perfect for watch parties or D&D game nights, bringing a fun and unique twist to your dessert table. With their vibrant red color and rich flavor, they are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-Catching Appearance: The striking red color makes these cookies a standout treat at any gathering.
• Delicious Flavor: Rich cocoa and sweet vanilla combine for a mouthwatering taste in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to themed parties.
• Fun Activity: Involve friends or family in the baking process for an entertaining time together.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Baking tray
• Digital cooking scale

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort by mixing ingredients evenly, ensuring you achieve the perfect dough consistency.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents cookies from sticking to the baking tray and makes cleanup easy.
• Digital cooking scale: Precise measurements enhance the quality of your cookies, ensuring consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For this exciting recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 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
• 1 cup cake flour
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 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 step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the cubed cold butter and granulated sugar.
Start mixing on low speed for 1 minute.
Increase the speed to high for another minute, scraping down the sides as needed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture.
Ensure each egg is fully combined before adding the next.
Follow with vanilla extract; mix until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Food Coloring and Cocoa Powder

Add red food coloring and cocoa powder to your mixture.
Mix on low speed until everything is evenly combined for a uniform color.

Step 5: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture.
Beat until fully combined, scraping down sides as necessary.

Step 7: Chill Dough

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

Step 8: Prepare Crushed Oreos

In a separate bowl, place your crushed Oreo Cookies. This will be used later to coat your cookie dough balls.

Step 9: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Using a digital cooking scale, measure out approximately 3.5 oz of dough per cookie ball.
Form it into a ball shape using your hands.

Step 10: Coat with Oreos

Roll each cookie dough ball in crushed Oreos.
Lightly press the Oreos into the dough so they stick well.

Step 11: Place on Baking Tray

Arrange cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake in the center rack of your preheated oven for about 10–11 minutes until slightly firm.

Step 13: Cool Your Cookies

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies!

How to Serve Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

These delightful Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are not only visually striking but also perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests and enhance your watch party experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the rich flavors of the cookies.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in clear bags and tie them with themed ribbons. These make great party favors for your guests to take home.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other treats like cupcakes or brownies for a fun display at parties or gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The warm, gooey cookie contrasts beautifully with the cold ice cream.

At Game Nights

• Set out these cookies as a sweet treat during your next game night or D&D session. They will surely fuel everyone’s excitement!

How to Perfect Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

To achieve the best results when making Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter helps create a firmer dough, which results in thicker cookies that hold their shape better during baking.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for 20 minutes solidifies the fats, preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method to ensure precise measurements. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be slightly soft in the center when done; they will continue cooking on the tray after removal from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

When serving Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, complement them with delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light contrast to the rich flavors of red velvet cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses and crackers; the savory elements balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip fruits or pretzels into melted chocolate for an interactive dessert experience.
4. Mini Cupcakes: Offer mini cupcakes in complementary flavors like vanilla or chocolate for variety on your dessert table.
5. Popcorn Bar: Create a popcorn bar with different toppings and flavorings, giving guests something crunchy and savory to enjoy alongside sweets.
6. Coffee or Tea Station: Providing a coffee or tea station allows guests to enjoy warm beverages that pair well with baked goods.
7. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthier option, perfect for those who want something lighter amid all the sweets.
8. S’mores Station: Set up a s’mores station with marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers—an irresistible combination that adds fun to any gathering!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Bold statement about butter temperature: Using butter that is not cold can lead to dough that spreads too much while baking. Always ensure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing.
• Bold statement about ingredient measurement: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin the texture of your cookies. Use a digital scale for precision, especially with flour.
• Bold statement about mixing speed: Overmixing the dough can make cookies tough. Mix only until the ingredients are combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Bold statement about chilling dough: Skipping the refrigeration step may result in cookies that spread excessively. Allow your dough to chill for at least 20 minutes.
• Bold statement about baking time: Not watching the baking time can lead to overbaking. Keep an eye on your cookies around the 10-minute mark for perfect softness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 1-2 minutes to warm them gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies.

What makes Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies special?

Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies stand out due to their vibrant color and unique appearance, resembling cracks from the Upside Down. They’re perfect for themed parties and events.

Can I use different food coloring?

Yes! You can experiment with other colors if you want a different look, but red food coloring gives these cookies their signature hue.

How do I get my cookies to look like Upside Down cracks?

To achieve that look, roll your dough in crushed Oreos before baking. This adds texture and visual appeal that mimics the show’s theme.

How long do Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies last?

These cookies can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Can I customize these cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins based on your preferences to make them uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are not just visually appealing; they’re also deliciously soft and chewy, making them perfect for any occasion. These customizable treats allow you to add your own twist while being an excellent conversation starter at gatherings. Don’t hesitate—try making them today!