Dive into the Upside Down: Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies (Irresistibly Gooey Cookies Inspired by Your Favorite Show)

Welcome to the delicious world of Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies! If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s as thrilling as an episode of your favorite show, these cookies are your ticket to a flavor adventure! With a deep red hue reminiscent of the mysterious Upside Down, these cookies boast a soft, chewy texture and a delightful taste that’ll have you feeling like a kid in a candy store. And the best part? They’re coated in crushed Oreos that add a delectable crunch, making them perfect for your next watch party or D&D game night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are sure to enchant both fans of the show and cookie lovers alike! Here’s why they’re bound to become your new favorite:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The rich cocoa and sweet vanilla create a delectable combination that’s simply irresistible.
– Fun Presentation: With their vibrant red color and Oreo crust, they’re as stunning as they are delicious!
– Quick and Easy: Whip up a batch in just 27 minutes—perfect for those last-minute cravings or surprise guests.
– Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather your ingredients for these fabulous Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies! You might be surprised at how simple they are, with one standout ingredient that takes them from ordinary to extraordinary: crushed Oreo cookies! They’re the perfect crunchy contrast to the soft, chewy cookie base.

Main 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)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies is their versatility! Feel free to customize your cookies with these fun variations:

– Go Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to accommodate dietary needs.
– Add Extra Protein: Mix in some chopped nuts or protein powder for a heartier cookie.
– Make it Spicier: Add a dash of cinnamon or chili powder for a surprising kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different mix-ins like mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks.
– Colorful Additions: Use different food coloring to create pastel versions for a fun twist.

How to Make Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to a sizzling 410°F (210°C) to ensure your cookies bake up perfectly!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer, toss in the cold, cubed butter and granulated sugar. Start on low speed for 1 minute, then crank it up to high for another minute, scraping the sides to ensure everything is blended smoothly!

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing until each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix until you have a luscious mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate the Red Color

Pour in the vibrant red food coloring and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until everything is beautifully combined.

Step 5: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to awaken their full potential.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined. Don’t forget to scrape the sides to make sure nothing is left behind!

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the dough uncovered for 20 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture!

Step 8: Prep the Oreo Coating

While the dough chills, place the crushed Oreos in a medium-sized bowl, ready for the cookie transformation.

Step 9: Measure and Form Dough Balls

Using a digital cooking scale, measure out 3.5 oz of dough and shape it into a ball with your hands.

Step 10: Coat with Crushed Oreos

Roll each cookie dough ball in the crushed Oreos, gently pressing them into the dough to ensure a delightful crunch in every bite.

Step 11: Arrange on Baking Tray

Place the cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking tray, giving them space to spread.

Step 12: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tray into the center of the oven and bake for 10-11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

Step 13: Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool before indulging in their deliciousness!

Pro Tips for Making Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

To ensure your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies are out of this world, keep these pro tips in mind:

– Cold Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is cold to achieve that perfect chewy texture.
– Don’t Overmix: When combining your dough, mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft.
– Chill for Success: Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and ensure a thick, chewy cookie.
– Oven Thermometer: Use an oven thermometer to double-check your oven temperature. Baking at the right temperature is crucial!

How to Serve Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies

Time to serve up your delectable Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies! Here are some creative ideas:

Garnishes:

Sprinkle some extra crushed Oreos on top for an eye-catching finish, or drizzle with a rich chocolate ganache for that extra luxurious touch!

Side Dishes:

Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present:

Serve these cookies on a vibrant platter at your next watch party, or package them in fun, themed bags as party favors for your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Want to prepare your Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies in advance? Here’s how to store them!

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and fresh, ready to delight your taste buds!

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

For the best experience after storage, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?
– Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.

Is this recipe spicy?
– Not at all! These cookies are sweet with a hint of cocoa flavor. However, feel free to add some spice if you’re adventurous!

Can I prepare this in advance?
– Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and chill it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

How do I make these cookies dairy-free?
– Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate for a delicious vegan option!

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re armed with everything you need to create these fantastic Stranger Things Red Velvet Cookies, it’s time to get baking! Whether it’s for a binge-watching session or a fun gathering, these cookies will steal the show with their mesmerizing color and irresistible flavor. So roll up your sleeves, summon your inner baker, and let the magic of the Upside Down tantalize your taste buds. Happy baking!