Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Don’t let the Upside Down seep out of these delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies. Perfect for a watch party or a D&D game, these cookies are not only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of rich cocoa and vibrant red coloring makes them a standout treat that fans will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a movie night or a themed party, these cookies fit right in.
• Visually Striking: The bright red color and unique texture mimic the cracks from the Upside Down, impressing guests with their appearance.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cocoa and creaminess from the Oreos create a delightful taste that pairs well with any dessert table.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add fun toppings to make them your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools. Having everything at hand will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing easy and ensures all ingredients are blended thoroughly without much effort.
• Digital cooking scale: Provides precise measurements for consistent cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating dry and wet ingredients before combining, which helps achieve the perfect texture.

Ingredients

For these delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, you’ll need the following 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
• 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 to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking these cookies perfectly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer, add:
1. The cubed cold butter.
2. Granulated sugar.

Using a paddle attachment on low speed, mix for 1 minute. Then increase to high speed for another minute. Scrape down the sides to ensure even blending.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture:
1. Mix until fully combined after each addition.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix again until combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Food Coloring and Cocoa

Add:
1. Red food coloring.
2. Cocoa powder.

Mix on low until everything is combined well.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Whisk together cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt until well mixed.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture:
1. Beat until just combined.
2. Scrape sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the dough uncovered for about 20 minutes to chill; this helps achieve better texture in your cookies.

Step 8: Prepare Crushed Oreos

Place crushed Oreos in a medium-sized bowl; this will be used to coat your cookie dough balls later.

Step 9: Measure Dough

Using a digital cooking scale:
1. Measure out approximately 3.5 oz of dough with your hands.
2. Form it into a ball shape.

Step 10: Coat with Oreos

Roll each cookie dough ball into the crushed Oreos:
– Lightly press Oreo pieces into each ball for an even coating.

Step 11: Arrange on Baking Tray

Place cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking tray:

• This spacing helps them bake evenly without sticking together.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake in the center rack of preheated oven for about:
– 10-11 minutes or until slightly firm at edges but soft in center.

Step 13: Cool Down

Remove from oven:
– Let cool on tray for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy these delightful Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies as you dive into your favorite episodes!

How to Serve Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

These delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a watch party or a themed event, here are some fun ways to serve them.

Creative Platter Ideas

• Cookie Towers: Stack cookies in a tower format for a dramatic presentation.
• Themed Plates: Use plates featuring designs from Stranger Things to enhance the theme.
• Cookie Bags: Package cookies in small bags tied with red ribbon for guests to take home.

Pairing Suggestions

• Milk: Serve with cold milk for a classic combination that complements the rich flavors.
• Coffee: Pair with coffee for adults wanting a cozy treat that balances sweetness.
• Ice Cream: Offer scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream alongside for an indulgent dessert experience.

Themed Decor

• Upside Down Display: Create an Upside Down effect on your table by using dark colors and eerie lighting to set the mood.
• Stranger Things Props: Incorporate themed props like walkie-talkies or Christmas lights to enhance the atmosphere.

How to Perfect Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Perfecting your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies can elevate your baking game. Here are some key tips to ensure they turn out fantastic.

• Bold Choice of Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer flavor in your cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking ensures chewier cookies and better texture.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking tray with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be slightly soft in the center when done.
• Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding sprinkles or drizzles of white chocolate for extra flair.
• Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

To complement your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert spread.

1. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers add freshness and balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Mini Sandwiches: Small sandwiches filled with turkey or chicken provide a savory contrast that’s satisfying.
3. Popcorn Mix: A mix of popcorn with chocolate drizzle offers crunch and fun flavors that pair well with sweets.
4. Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies served with hummus create a healthy option for guests who want something light.
5. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses enhances flavors and provides variety alongside the cookies.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These sweet-salty treats are easy to make and will please guests looking for crunchy snacks.
7. Cucumber Bites: Light and refreshing, cucumber bites topped with cream cheese add a cool element to your spread.
8. Trail Mix: A homemade trail mix can be customized with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, perfect for snacking!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and results in a better texture. Don’t skip this important step!
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Always use a digital scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Using warm butter: Cold butter is essential for achieving the right consistency in your cookie dough. Make sure it’s cold and cubed before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure yours is preheated correctly to 410° F for optimal baking.
• Not spacing cookies properly: Place your cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart to allow for spreading while they bake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of food coloring?

Yes, you can substitute gel food coloring if you prefer; just use less than liquid food coloring since gel is more concentrated.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, but check that it contains xanthan gum or add it separately.

What’s the best way to store my cookies?

Store your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Are there any customization options?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap crushed Oreos with crushed graham crackers for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

These Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are not only visually appealing but also deliciously unique. Perfect for any watch party or themed event, they provide endless opportunities for customization. Try adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings!