Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Don’t let the Upside Down seep out of these delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies. Perfect for watch parties or game nights, these cookies not only look fantastic but also taste incredible. Their vibrant color and fun appearance make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time.
• Visually Striking: The bright red color and unique textures make these cookies eye-catching.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a movie night or a birthday party, these cookies fit right in.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids and adults alike will enjoy both making and eating these delightful treats.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cocoa and sweet creaminess from the Oreos creates an irresistible taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Digital kitchen scale
• Parchment paper
• Baking tray

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the dough easier, ensuring all ingredients are well combined quickly.
• Digital kitchen scale: Provides accuracy when measuring cookie dough, helping you create uniform cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, allowing for easy cookie removal.

Ingredients

To make these amazing cookies, you’ll need 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 ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer:
1. Add the cubed cold butter and granulated sugar.
2. With a paddle attachment, mix on low speed for 1 minute.
3. Increase to high speed for another minute. Scrape down the sides for even blending.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture:
1. Ensure each egg is fully combined before adding the next.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract until mixed thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Food Coloring and Cocoa Powder

Add:
1. The red food coloring
2. The cocoa powder
Mix on low speed until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Combine the cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Whisk together until evenly blended.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture:
1. Beat until fully combined.
2. Scrape down the sides to ensure no dry ingredients remain.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the dough uncovered for 20 minutes to allow it to firm up slightly.

Step 8: Prepare Crushed Oreos

Place crushed Oreos in a medium-sized bowl, ready for rolling your cookie dough balls.

Step 9: Portion Cookie Dough

Using your hands or a digital cooking scale:
1. Measure out approximately 3.5 oz of dough per cookie ball.
2. Form into balls.

Step 10: Coat with Crushed Oreos

Roll each cookie dough ball into the crushed Oreos:
1. Lightly press so they adhere well to each ball.

Step 11: Arrange on Baking Tray

Place 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 or until set but soft in the center.

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving or storing.

Enjoy your delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies!

How to Serve Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are a delightful treat that can be showcased in various creative ways. Whether you’re hosting a watch party or a game night, here are some fun serving ideas to make your cookies stand out.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a vibrant platter for an eye-catching display. You can even add themed decorations like small figurines from the series.

Dessert Table

• Set up a dessert table featuring other favorites alongside the cookies. Include themed items like ‘Upside Down’ brownies or popcorn for an exciting spread.

Individual Bags

• Place each cookie in a small, clear bag tied with red ribbon. These make great party favors for guests to take home.

Milk Shooters

• Serve cookies with mini milk shooters for a fun dip experience. Use small glasses or shot glasses filled with cold milk for added charm.

Themed Plates

• Use plates that match the Stranger Things theme. Consider using dark tones or patterns resembling the Upside Down for a cohesive look.

Cookie Sandwiches

• Transform your cookies into delicious sandwiches by adding cream cheese frosting between two cookies. This adds an extra layer of flavor and fun!

How to Perfect Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

To ensure your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps achieve the right texture, making your cookies chewy on the inside and slightly crisp on the edges.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough allows it to firm up, preventing overly flat cookies while baking.

• Measure ingredients correctly: Accurate measurement ensures consistent results; use kitchen scales for precision, especially with flour.

• Rotate baking trays: For even baking, rotate your trays halfway through cooking. This helps combat uneven oven heat.

• Watch baking time closely: Cookies should just start to set around the edges but remain soft in the center. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies enhances your themed gathering. Here are some delicious suggestions to consider:

1. Themed Fruit Skewers: Create skewers with red and black fruits like strawberries and blackberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of cookies.

2. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These salty-sweet treats provide crunch and complement the rich flavors of red velvet nicely.

3. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses paired with crackers and fruit spreads to balance out the dessert offerings and provide savory options.

4. Popcorn Bar: Set up a popcorn station with various toppings (like caramel, cheese powder, or chocolate drizzle) to keep guests snacking while enjoying their cookies.

5. Themed Jello Cups: Make red fruit jello cups using plant-based gelling agents for an additional sweet treat that fits within your theme.

6. Mini Cupcakes: Offer mini cupcakes in flavors like chocolate or vanilla decorated with red frosting to complement your cookie spread beautifully.

7. Ice Cream Sundae Station: Provide ice cream along with toppings such as sprinkles, whipped cream, and cherries for guests to build their sundaes alongside their cookies.

8. Savory Veggie Platter: Balance out sweetness with fresh veggies served alongside dips like hummus or ranch dressing for a healthy option on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Ignoring the butter temperature: Ensure the butter is cold and cubed for the perfect texture. Room temperature butter can lead to overly flat cookies.
• Rushing the mixing process: Take your time when combining ingredients. A well-mixed dough ensures even distribution of flavors and textures.
• Skipping the chilling step: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough for 20 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies in the oven. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
• Not using parchment paper: Always line your baking tray with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect cookie bottom.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Place them in a zip-top bag, remove excess air, and label with the date.

Reheating Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use oil instead of butter for Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies?

Using oil instead of butter is not recommended as it affects the texture. Stick with cold unsalted butter for best results.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Cookies should look slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, add a little more all-purpose flour until you reach a workable consistency.

How can I customize my Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or different types of crushed cookies for unique flavors!

Final Thoughts

These Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously soft and flavorful. Perfect for any gathering or themed event, they are easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins. Try making them today and enjoy a delightful treat inspired by your favorite show!