If the Upside Down had a sweet side, it might just look like these desserts. Inspired by the eerie world of Stranger Things, fans have been whipping up creative puddings that blend nostalgia, indulgence, and a touch of spooky fun.
From gooey creations that nod to Hawkins’ most memorable moments to clever twists on classic bakes, these ideas are perfect for a themed party or a cosy night in with your favourite episodes.
This article is for general informational purposes only. Recipe ideas are inspired by Stranger Things and are not officially affiliated with Netflix. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
1. Upside Down Pineapple (Or Plum) Cake
British bakers have been flipping cakes since the 1920s, long before Eleven ever stepped into the Upside Down. The classic pineapple version features caramelised fruit that glistens like something from another dimension, whilst plum offers a seasonal twist with deep purple hues that feel properly eerie.
Tesco and Sainsbury's stock tinned pineapple rings year-round, making this a doddle to whip up. For a more British spin, swap in Victoria plums during autumn – their tartness cuts through the sweetness brilliantly. Serve warm with custard for maximum nostalgic comfort.
2. "Upside Down" Chocolate Blackberry Milkshakes
Blackberries grow wild across British hedgerows every September, turning footpaths into free pudding shops. Their deep purple juice creates an otherworldly swirl when mixed with chocolate ice cream, looking properly mysterious in a tall glass.
Blend vanilla ice cream with frozen blackberries and a glug of whole milk, then drizzle chocolate sauce down the inside of your glass before pouring. The dark streaks against purple look like portals opening. Top with squirty cream from a tin – none of that posh stuff – and a few fresh berries for drama.
3. The "Tree Portal" Layer Cake
Remember that creepy tree in the woods where Will disappeared? Recreating it in cake form sounds bonkers, but it's actually quite brilliant. Stack chocolate sponge layers with raspberry jam – the bright red oozing between dark layers mimics that eerie glow from the show.
Use a fork to drag through chocolate buttercream frosting to create bark-like texture on the outside. Mr Kipling's chocolate slices work as a cheat base if you're short on time. Finish with red jelly sweets tucked into the layers to represent the portal's glow, visible when you slice through.
4. "Christmas Lights" Alphabet Cupcakes
Joyce Byers' iconic alphabet wall became one of telly's most memorable moments. Translating it to cupcakes means you can actually spell out messages whilst scoffing pudding – proper multitasking. Use different coloured frostings to mimic those glowing bulbs strung across her living room wall.
Bake a batch of vanilla cupcakes, then ice each one in bright shades using supermarket gel colours. Press alphabet letters cut from fondant or use those edible marker pens from Asda onto each cake. Arrange them on a tray so guests can spell out their own spooky messages before demolition begins.
5. Demogorgon-Mouth Mince Pies Or Tarts
Mince pies are as British as queuing and complaining about the weather, appearing in every supermarket from October onwards. The Demogorgon's terrifying petal-faced mouth translates surprisingly well to pastry when you get creative with your crimping and cutting.
Use shop-bought mince pies from Greggs or make your own shortcrust. Before baking, cut jagged triangular slits radiating from the centre of the pastry lid, creating those signature monstrous teeth. The dark mincemeat filling peeks through like something sinister. Dust with icing sugar for a snowy Hawkins winter effect that's both festive and frightening.
6. "The Void" Black Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae
When Eleven enters the Void, everything goes pitch black except for what she's searching for. Recreating that stark emptiness in dessert form requires activated charcoal powder, available from Holland & Barrett or online, mixed into quality vanilla ice cream.
The result looks properly dramatic – jet black scoops that taste surprisingly normal and sweet. Layer in a tall glass with crushed Oreos (remove the cream for extra darkness) and top with white vanilla sauce for contrast. It's like eating the space between dimensions, which sounds mental but tastes mint. The visual impact alone makes it party-worthy.
