Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Don’t let the Upside Down seep out of these delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies. Perfect for any watch party, game night, or themed event, these cookies combine a rich red velvet flavor with a fun visual twist. The unique appearance mimics the cracks from the Upside Down, making them a standout dessert that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The deep red color and unique texture make these cookies an eye-catching treat.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, even beginner bakers can whip up a batch quickly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for parties, movie nights, or just a fun treat for yourself.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cocoa and sweet vanilla creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Fun Activity: Get creative by making these cookies with friends or family as part of a themed event.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Digital cooking scale: Ensures precise measurements for consistent cookie size and texture.

Ingredients

To make your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, gather 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 the 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.

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 until combined.
* Increase the speed to high for another minute, scraping down the sides to ensure even blending.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture.
* Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
* Then add in the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Color and Cocoa

Add the red food coloring and cocoa powder.
* Mix on low until everything is evenly blended.

Step 5: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Whisk until well mixed.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

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

Step 7: Chill Cookie Dough

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

Step 8: Prepare Oreo Coating

While waiting for the dough, place crushed Oreos in a medium-sized bowl.

Step 9: Form Cookie Balls

Using a digital cooking scale, measure out approximately 3.5 oz of dough per cookie ball.
* Roll it into a smooth ball shape.

Step 10: Coat in Crushed Oreos

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

Step 11: Arrange on Baking Tray

Place cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking tray to allow space for spreading during baking.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake in the center rack of the preheated oven for about 10-11 minutes or until they look set but still soft in the center.

Step 13: Cool Down

Remove from oven and let cool completely on wire racks before serving. Enjoy your delightful creation!

How to Serve Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

These delightful Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are perfect for any gathering, especially a watch party or game night. Here are some fun serving ideas to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness of the cookies and balances their rich flavors.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Combine these cookies with other themed treats like brownies or cupcakes. This makes for an eye-catching dessert display.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top for a deliciously gooey treat.

At a Themed Party

• Use cookie stands decorated with Stranger Things motifs. This adds excitement and engages your guests in the theme.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer warm chocolate sauce or creamy peanut butter as dips. This adds an interactive element to cookie enjoyment.

How to Perfect Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Perfecting your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies can elevate them from good to unforgettable. Here are some helpful tips:

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill prevents spreading and helps maintain that thick cookie texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and flour are fresh for the best rise and flavor.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; ovens can vary. Remove them when they’re just set for a soft center.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.
• Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding sprinkles or drizzling melted chocolate on top for added flair.

Best Side Dishes for Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

These cookies can shine even brighter when served alongside complementary side dishes. Here are some suggestions:

1. Mini Cheesecakes: Creamy and sweet, mini cheesecakes pair well with the rich flavors of red velvet.
2. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These offer a luxurious touch that matches well with the dessert theme.
4. Popcorn Mix: Create a sweet and salty popcorn mix with chocolate drizzle and sprinkles for extra crunch.
5. Brownies: Fudgy brownies bring another layer of richness, balancing nicely with red velvet flavors.
6. Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use additional cookies to make ice cream sandwiches; this is always a crowd-pleaser!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using room temperature instead of cold butter can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always use cold, cubed butter for the right texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined for soft and chewy cookies.
• Skipping the chill time: Not refrigerating the dough can result in flat cookies. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 20 minutes to maintain shape.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can alter the texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially with flour.
• Ignoring oven preheating: Baking cookies in a non-preheated oven can affect their rise. Always preheat your oven before baking for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last up to 1 week while keeping their freshness.

Freezing Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen.
• The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds at medium power.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes until they are heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I ensure my Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are chewy?

To achieve a chewy texture, avoid overmixing the dough and chill it before baking. This helps maintain moisture in the cookies.

Can I use different food coloring?

Yes! While red food coloring is traditional for these cookies, you can experiment with other colors for fun variations.

What if I don’t have cake flour?

You can substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour by reducing the amount slightly or mixing all-purpose with cornstarch.

How can I customize my Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or other flavored extracts to enhance your cookie’s taste.

Final Thoughts

Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously satisfying. They’re perfect for themed parties or casual snacking. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite mix-ins!