If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, nothing compares to a perfectly baked chocolate chip cookie. The delightful combination of gooey chocolate, buttery dough, and a slightly crisp exterior makes these cookies a classic favorite. Inspired by the famous Levain Bakery’s chocolate chip cookies, this recipe captures the essence of what makes them so irresistible. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, have fun creating these delicious treats that are sure to impress friends and family.
Why We Love This Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies have a special place in many hearts for a few reasons. First, the texture is unmatched. They strike a balance between soft and chewy in the center, with a gorgeously golden-brown exterior that adds a pleasant crunch. Each bite delivers an explosion of rich chocolate flavor, as large chunks of chocolate melt beautifully in the oven.
Moreover, the size of these cookies is impressive. They are generously portioned, offering a satisfying indulgence that feels special. When you make them, you also get the joy of baking; from the warm, sweet aroma that fills your kitchen to the moment they come out of the oven, piping hot and inviting, it’s a full experience.
Finally, these cookies are versatile. They complement so many occasions, from casual dessert time at home to more celebratory gatherings. They can even be dressed up with a scoop of ice cream, turning them into an indulgent dessert.
Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line several baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for the cookies.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
Fold in the chocolate chips and optional walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Using a large cookie scoop or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop out generous amounts of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Leave plenty of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the center remains soft and slightly underbaked.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies shine on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further with a few simple serving ideas. A classic way to enjoy them is warm from the oven, where the chocolate is still gooey and melty. If you plan to serve them during a gathering, consider placing them on a large platter, showcasing their size and inviting appearance.
To create a more decadent dessert, serve the cookies alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The combination of warm cookie and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that appeals to many.
For added fun, make ice cream sandwiches by putting a scoop of ice cream between two cookies. This transforms your baked treats into a party favorite.
Don’t forget the drinks! A glass of cold milk is always a hit, but you can also pair these cookies with a coffee or tea for a more sophisticated treat. Whatever way you choose to serve them, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Expert Tips for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Achieving the perfect Levain Bakery-style chocolate chip cookie entails a few tricks. One important tip is to use high-quality chocolate chips or chunks. The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor. Choose a semisweet or dark chocolate for a flavor that stands up to the dough’s sweetness.
Another key is to properly measure your flour. Spoon the flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it in. Too much flour can lead to a dry cookie.
Chilling the dough before baking can help you achieve thicker cookies with a nice height. If you have the time, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so check your cookies a couple of minutes before the suggested bake time. You want the cookies to be set on the edges but still soft in the middle.
Lastly, consider experimenting with mix-ins. Different nuts or types of chocolate can bring unique flavors to your cookies while keeping the core recipe intact.
How to Store Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, proper storage is key. Once they have completely cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container. This helps maintain their chewy texture and prevents them from drying out.
You can also layer parchment paper between the cookies to avoid them sticking together. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. You can place the baked and cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers. They will last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just take them out and let them defrost at room temperature. For an additional treat, you can reheat them briefly in the oven.
Variations of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, there are numerous variations you can explore to make these cookies your own. One popular twist is to incorporate different types of chocolate. Try using white chocolate chips or milk chocolate chunks for a sweeter option.
Another variation is to add flavorings, such as a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder, to amplify the chocolate taste. You can even experiment with nut types; almonds, pecans, or macadamia nuts can give your cookies a crunchy texture and a new flavor dimension.
For a stuffed cookie, try making a pocket in the cookie dough and adding a small piece of chocolate or fudge before sealing it closed. This creates an indulgent surprise in every bite.
Make it more festive by adding seasonal flavors. For example, use pumpkin spice during fall or peppermint bits during the winter holidays.
Exploring these variations allows you to customize your cookies to suit any occasion while keeping the spirit of the original Levain Bakery chocolate chip cookie alive.
FAQ about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
You might have some questions about the iconic Levain Bakery chocolate chip cookies. One of the most common inquiries is about why these cookies are so thick and chewy. The dough’s high butter-to-flour ratio, along with the choice to stop mixing once the ingredients combine, helps create a soft center while the outside gets nicely baked.
Another frequently asked question is whether you can substitute ingredients. Yes, you can make substitutions based on dietary preferences. For instance, feel free to use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option or vegan butter for a plant-based version. Just note that the texture may vary slightly.
As for storage concerns, many wonder how long these cookies can last. If stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature. You can also freeze them for future cravings.
Lastly, people often ask about the best way to reheat these cookies. The oven works well; just pop them in for a couple of minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warm. This helps restore the gooey texture that everyone loves.
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for best results.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Properly measure flour to avoid a dry cookie.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips Use high-quality chocolate for better flavor.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line several baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and optional walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Using a large cookie scoop or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, place generous amounts of dough on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
Baking
- Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but the center remains soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
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