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 or D&D game, these cookies not only look striking with their vibrant red color but also offer a delightful taste that will leave everyone craving more. The unique design mimics the cracks from the show, making them an exciting addition to any themed gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cocoa and sweet sugar creates a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the crunchy Oreo coating.
• Themed Fun: These cookies are perfect for any Stranger Things fan and add a fun twist to parties.
• Versatile Treat: Not just for themed events; enjoy them as an everyday snack or dessert.
• Visually Stunning: The striking red color and Oreo coating make these cookies visually appealing and Instagram-worthy.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully create your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort while ensuring your ingredients are well blended.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to transfer cookies from the tray to your serving platter.
• Digital cooking scale: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent cookie sizes every time.

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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
• 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° F. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Color and Cocoa

Add in the red food coloring and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until everything is combined evenly.

Step 5: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in your stand mixer. Beat until well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 7: Chill Dough

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

Step 8: Prepare Oreos

Place crushed Oreos in a medium-sized bowl. This will be used as your cookie coating.

Step 9: Form Cookie Balls

Using a digital cooking scale, measure out 3.5 oz of dough per cookie ball using your hands.

Step 10: Coat with Oreos

Roll each cookie dough ball into the crushed Oreos, pressing lightly so they stick well.

Step 11: Arrange on Baking Tray

Place cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking tray for even baking.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake in the center of your preheated oven for 10-11 minutes until set but soft in appearance.

Step 13: Cool Down

Remove from oven and allow cooling on trays before transferring to serving platters. Enjoy your delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies!

How to Serve Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

These delicious Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a watch party, a themed birthday celebration, or just a fun treat, serving them creatively can elevate the experience.

Watch Party Delight

• With Milk: Pair the cookies with a glass of cold milk. The creaminess complements the rich flavor of red velvet.
• On a Themed Platter: Arrange the cookies on a platter with other Stranger Things-inspired snacks for a cohesive look.

Fun with Friends

• D&D Game Night: Place cookies in a decorative box for easy grabbing during gaming sessions. They’re sure to keep everyone energized!
• Movie Night Treats: Serve alongside popcorn and candy for a full movie night spread that will impress your guests.

Birthday Bash Ideas

• Colorful Cupcake Stand: Stack cookies on a tiered stand decorated with red and black accents to match the theme.
• Cookie Favors: Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with red ribbons as party favors for guests to take home.

How to Perfect Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Perfecting these cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out fantastic every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading and ensures thick, chewy cookies.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder and flour are fresh for optimal results.
• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients, especially flour, for precise measurements.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be soft in the center when you take them out.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet helps them firm up and enhances their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Pairing these vibrant cookies with complementary side dishes enhances their appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: A sweet dip made from cream cheese, perfect for adding an extra layer of flavor.
2. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers provide freshness and balance out the richness of the cookies.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats add decadence and align with the cookie’s sweet theme.
4. Peanut Butter Cups: Classic chocolate and peanut butter cups make an irresistible pairing that guests will love.
5. Popcorn Mix: A sweet and salty popcorn mix can add crunch and variety to your dessert spread.
6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar where guests can top their ice cream with crushed cookies for an extra treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your baking experience and ensure your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies turn out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Not chilling the dough before baking can cause cookies to spread too much. Always refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or burnt cookies. Use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.
• Using Warm Butter: Starting with cold butter helps achieve the right texture. Make sure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Freeze cookies for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to keep them separate.

Reheating Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

You can omit the food coloring if you prefer a classic chocolate cookie. The taste will remain delicious!

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s a blend that can replace regular flour cup-for-cup.

How do I store leftover dough?

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.

What can I use instead of crushed Oreos?

You could use any chocolate cookie or even graham cracker crumbs if you want a different flavor profile.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies by adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins.

Final Thoughts

Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are not only fun but also versatile. Perfect for themed parties, game nights, or just a sweet treat at home, you can easily customize these cookies with your favorite flavors or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!