Walking past a bustling bakery, the warm scents of butter and chocolate weaving through the air immediately transports me to a place of comfort. That’s precisely the feeling you get when baking these Thick and Chewy Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. This recipe captures the magic of the beloved New York treat right in your kitchen, offering a delightful cookie with a crispy exterior and an irresistibly soft center. Not only is this cookie an indulgent treat that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, but it’s also a straightforward baking project that’s beginner-friendly and fully customizable. You can easily mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate varieties, making it a versatile recipe to suit every taste. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this sweet adventure!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Thickness: These cookies mimic the lavish style of Levain Bakery, delivering a thick, chewy texture that’s incredibly satisfying with every bite.
Ease of Preparation: Even if you’ve never baked before, this straightforward recipe ensures delicious results; no fancy techniques are required!
Customizable: With options to incorporate various nuts and chocolate types, each batch can be uniquely tailored to suit your preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for sharing at gatherings, these cookies will make you the star of any bake sale or family get-together. Pair with cold milk, or even whip up an ice cream sandwich for a memorable dessert!
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients mean you don’t have to break the bank, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever cravings strike.
Explore variations such as adding nuts or trying them alongside our delicious Mint Chocolate Brownies for an exciting twist!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter (115g, cold) – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Brown Sugar (190g) – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Infuses flavor; use pure vanilla extract for optimal taste.
- Large Egg (1, cold) – Binds ingredients and adds richness; swap for a flax egg to make it vegan.
- All-Purpose Flour (245g) – The main structure of your cookie; use a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
- Cornflour (1 tablespoon) – Enhances tenderness; optional but highly recommended.
- Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon) – Helps the cookies rise; essential for the perfect texture.
- Salt (pinch, optional) – Enhances flavor; consider omitting if using salted butter.
For the Mix-Ins
- Dark or Milk Chocolate (225g, chopped) – Provides richness and texture; switch to white chocolate or flavored varieties for an exciting twist.
- Walnuts (50g, chopped) – Adds crunch and flavor; omit if allergic, or replace with pecans for a different taste.
For Finishing
- Sea Salt Flakes – Sprinkle on top before serving for an exquisite flavor enhancement.
These Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies will capture the hearts (and taste buds!) of everyone fortunate enough to enjoy them!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it warms up, line two baking trays with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your kitchen tidy and making the baking process smoother!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the cold unsalted butter and brown sugar together until they are just combined and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Take a moment to admire the smooth texture as it transforms; it’s the first step to achieving those delightful Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, add the cold large egg and the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated, aiming to avoid overmixing. This step adds richness to the dough, essential for a chewy texture. Stop mixing once you see a unified blend; it should look smooth and slightly glossy.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cornflour, baking soda, and optional pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until a soft dough forms, making sure not to overwork it. At this stage, the dough will be thick, tender, and a tad sticky, perfectly setting the stage for our delicious cookies!
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped dark or milk chocolate and walnuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough. Take your time with this step; the cookie dough should feel rich and packed with chocolatey goodness. Each bite of your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies will be a heavenly burst of flavor, thanks to these delightful mix-ins.
Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, scoop about two tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them on the prepared baking trays. Leave ample space between the dough balls to allow for spreading. Aim for about 2-3 inches apart; this ensures each cookie bakes perfectly without merging into one giant treat!
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Slide the baking trays into the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, until the cookies are golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should look slightly underbaked—that’s what makes them chewy like the beloved Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Step 8: Cool and Finish
Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the trays before transferring them to a wire rack. Before serving, sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on top for an extra flavor burst. This touch elevates your cookies, making them even more reminiscent of a gourmet bakery treat!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Customize your cookies for an exciting twist that tantalizes your taste buds and suits your personal preferences!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cookies without the gluten.
-
Nut-Free: Skip the walnuts and try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without nuts.
-
Diverse Chocolates: Experiment with a mix of dark, milk, and white chocolate for a colorful and flavorful cookie experience.
-
Minty Fresh: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist, especially if you use dark chocolate.
-
Salted Caramel: Incorporate chopped caramel pieces into the dough for a chewy surprise with every bite.
-
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a unique spicy chocolate cookie that will awaken your senses.
-
Dried Fruits: Fold in your favorite dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a natural sweetness and chewy texture.
-
Coconut Flavor: Add unsweetened shredded coconut into the mix for an exotic touch that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
These variations are perfect for making each batch uniquely yours! Love rich flavors? You might also enjoy our decadent White Chocolate Cranberry or the delightful Chocolate Churro Cookies. Happy baking!
Storage Tips for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for snacking whenever the craving strikes.
Fridge: If you want to prolong freshness, the cookies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your unbaked dough in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking fresh cookies whenever your heart desires a warm treat!
Reheating: To enjoy cookies that taste freshly baked, reheat them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-10 minutes. This brings back their delightful texture and warmth, just like the original Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to bake fresh cookies later, simply scoop the dough onto your baking trays when ready to bake, and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; just place them on a baking tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll always have delicious Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies ready whenever a craving hits!
What to Serve with Thick and Chewy Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Delight in creating a memorable dessert experience that’s sure to please everyone around your table.
-
Chilled Milk: A classic pairing, cold milk balances the rich flavors of the cookies and enhances the chocolate experience, giving you that comforting nostalgia.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, sweet vanilla ice cream melting over warm cookies creates an irresistible combination, transforming your treat into an indulgent sundae.
-
Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries offers a refreshing contrast to the cookie’s sweetness, adding color and a burst of flavor to every bite.
-
Coffee: A robust cup of coffee elevates the cookie experience, its bitterness perfectly balancing the sweet, gooey chocolate while wake-up your senses.
-
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm salted caramel over these cookies brings a delightful combination of sweet and salty, making every bite feel like a gourmet delight.
-
Hot Chocolate: Embrace the chocolatey goodness by pairing them with a rich, frothy hot chocolate; this comforting duo is perfect for cozy evenings.
-
Nutty Granola: A crunchy nutty granola served on the side adds texture contrast, enhancing the cookie’s flavors while providing a wholesome element.
-
Chocolate Milkshake: For those who adore a nostalgic treat, a thick chocolate milkshake pairs wonderfully with cookies, creating a scrumptious dessert experience.
-
Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea is a soothing companion, adding a delightful aromatic experience to your cookie enjoyment, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Expert Tips for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
-
Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter and eggs to maintain the thickness of the cookies, preventing them from spreading too much during baking.
-
Measure Flour Accurately: Properly measuring flour is crucial for cookie texture. A kitchen scale can help ensure you get it just right for these Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
-
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated for that perfect soft and chewy texture.
-
Chill the Dough: For an enhanced thickness and chewiness, consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking—this also makes it easier to scoop!
-
Batch Baking: Bake cookies in batches, placing the baking tray in the center of the oven; this helps achieve even baking and prevents any cookies from burning.
-
Mix-In Options: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different chocolate types or add-ins like nuts or dried fruit to personalize your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe chocolate for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chocolate, look for bars with a cocoa content you enjoy, ideally 60% or more for a rich flavor. If you prefer milk chocolate, aim for high-quality brands to ensure a smooth, creamy texture. Avoid chocolate that has a dull appearance or cracks, as these can indicate age or poor quality.
How should I store baked Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll remain soft and chewy, perfect for snacking. If you want to keep them a bit longer, place them in the fridge where they can last for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well sealed to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough! Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time if they’re still quite cold.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! This could be due to using room temperature butter or overmixing the dough. To remedy this, make sure to use cold butter as indicated and mix just until combined. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can also help prevent them from spreading too much, resulting in that thick, chewy texture we desire.
Are Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Certainly! You can enjoy these cookies even if you or someone you’re baking for has nut allergies. Simply omit the walnuts and consider using chocolate chips made without common allergens. Alternatively, you could substitute nuts with seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for that added crunch without the worry.
Thick Chewy Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking trays with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cold unsalted butter and brown sugar together until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cold large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix gently until well incorporated.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cornflour, baking soda, and optional salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Gently fold in the chopped chocolate and walnuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
- Scoop about two tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them on the prepared baking trays.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center.
- Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the trays before transferring them to a wire rack and sprinkle sea salt flakes on top.
Leave a Reply