Brimstone Cookies

These eye-catching red and black Brimstone Cookies are a delightful treat that’s not only simple to whip up but also stunning to behold. With their vibrant colors and unique flavor, they’re perfect for Halloween celebrations or any festive occasion. Made with just four ingredients, these cookies will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only four ingredients, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The striking red and black colors make them a perfect centerpiece for Halloween parties.
• Versatile Flavor: The rich taste of red velvet and black cocoa creates a unique combination that everyone will love.
• Fun to Make: Rolling the dough in cocoa powder adds an enjoyable twist to the baking process.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields about 20 cookies, making it ideal for gatherings or as a treat for friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious Brimstone Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone liners
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients thoroughly.
• Baking sheets: These ensure even baking. Using parchment paper or silicone liners prevents sticking.

Ingredients

These eye-catching red and black Brimstone cookies are easy to make with just 4 ingredients and are the perfect treat for Halloween celebrations.

For the Cookie Base

• 15.25 ounce red velvet cake mix (1 box)
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil

For the Cocoa Coating

• ½ cup black cocoa powder

How to Make Brimstone Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, beat together the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Cookies

Scoop 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls.

Step 4: Coat with Cocoa Powder

Place each ball of dough individually in the black cocoa powder. You can coat them completely for a full crinkle cookie look or leave sections exposed for a brimstone appearance.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Place each cocoa-coated dough ball at least 2 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheets.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your deliciously spooky Brimstone Cookies!

How to Serve Brimstone Cookies

Brimstone cookies are not just delicious; they are also visually striking. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing with milk enhances the rich flavors of the cookies. The creaminess complements the chocolatey notes from the black cocoa powder.

On a Halloween-Themed Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a spooky platter decorated with mini pumpkins, spider webs, or other Halloween-themed decorations for a festive touch.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in transparent bags tied with black ribbons. These make perfect party favors for Halloween gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm Brimstone cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin spice ice cream for a delightful dessert combination.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Break up the cookies and sprinkle them over yogurt for an unexpected and tasty topping that adds both texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Brimstone Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Brimstone cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your cake mix and eggs are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Chill Dough Balls: If time allows, chill the dough balls for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. Ovens vary, so remove them when they appear slightly underbaked for a softer texture.
• Experiment with Coating: Try different levels of cocoa powder coating—full coverage for deep color or partial for a unique brimstone look.
• Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them moist.

Best Side Dishes for Brimstone Cookies

Brimstone cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the cookies and adds natural sweetness.
2. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese to contrast with the cookie flavors.
3. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix can provide a satisfying texture alongside your soft cookies.
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats enhance the chocolate theme while adding freshness.
5. Mini Cupcakes: Offer small cupcakes in complementary flavors like vanilla or chocolate to create an assortment.
6. Coffee or Tea: Serve hot beverages like coffee or herbal tea for a cozy pairing that enhances the overall experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brimstone Cookies can be fun, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final product.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheets to ensure easy removal.
• Overmixing the dough: This can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F for best results.
• Not spacing the cookies properly: Placing cookies too close can cause them to merge while baking. Keep at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
• Ignoring cooling time: Moving cookies too soon from the baking sheet can cause breakage. Let them cool for about 5 minutes before transferring.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Brimstone Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brimstone Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brimstone Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Brimstone Cookies.

Can I use a different cake mix for Brimstone Cookies?

Absolutely! While red velvet is traditional, you can experiment with any boxed cake mix flavor you like.

How do I achieve a perfect crinkle in my Brimstone Cookies?

To get that classic crinkle look, make sure to coat the dough balls thoroughly in black cocoa powder before baking.

How long do Brimstone Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies remain fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months when frozen.

Are Brimstone Cookies suitable for all occasions?

Yes! These festive cookies are perfect for Halloween but can also be enjoyed year-round as a fun treat.

Final Thoughts

Brimstone Cookies are not only visually striking but also incredibly easy to make with just four ingredients. Their unique flavor and appearance make them a hit during celebrations or as an everyday treat. Feel free to customize them with different coatings or toppings to suit your taste!