Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Super thick and chewy, Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. These cookies boast a rich flavor and a soft, gooey center that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies will satisfy your cravings. Their unique texture and chocolatey goodness make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of dark or milk chocolate and walnuts creates a deliciously rich taste.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies are thick and chewy, providing that satisfying bite you crave.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll whip these up in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.
- Homemade Goodness: Baking from scratch means no preservatives—just pure, wholesome ingredients.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools is essential for making the perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. Having everything on hand will streamline your baking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking trays
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients comfortably without spills.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
- Baking trays: Proper baking trays help ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Parchment paper: It provides a non-stick surface for easy cookie removal after baking.
Ingredients
Super thick and chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies made from scratch.
Ingredients:
– 115 grams (1/2 cup or 1 stick) unsalted butter, COLD (straight from the fridge), roughly chopped
– 190 grams (1 cup) brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg, cold
– 245 grams (1 and 3/4 cup) plain flour or all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon cornflour or cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt, optional
– 225 grams (1 and 1/2 cups) dark or milk chocolate, chopped by hand
– 50 grams (1/2 cup) walnuts, roughly chopped
– Sea salt flakes
How to Make Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180 C (350 F) standard or 160 C (320 F) fan-forced. Line two baking trays with baking or parchment paper to prepare for the cookies.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the cold butter and brown sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until they are well combined. Then add the vanilla extract and cold egg, blending until just mixed—be careful not to over mix.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the plain flour, cornflour, baking soda, and optional salt into the mixture. Beat on low speed until a soft cookie dough forms. Gently fold in the chopped chocolate and walnuts, mixing briefly.
Step 4: Scoop Cookie Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out approximately two tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Place them on the prepared baking trays, ensuring there is enough space between each ball for spreading during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-14 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Allow them to cool completely on the tray before sprinkling sea salt flakes on top for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their thick and chewy texture makes them a delightful treat whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with a chilled glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the rich chocolate flavor.
A La Mode
- Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The heat from the cookie will slightly melt the ice cream, creating a delicious contrast.
Coffee Companion
- Enjoy your cookies alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness beautifully.
Cookie Sandwiches
- Create cookie sandwiches by adding your favorite frosting or spread between two cookies. This takes indulgence to another level!
Gift Packaging
- Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. They make excellent treats for special occasions.
How to Perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
To achieve the ultimate Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
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Use cold ingredients: Start with cold butter and egg. This helps create the thick texture characteristic of Levain cookies.
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Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking helps enhance flavors and improves texture.
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Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately, ensuring your cookies do not turn out dry.
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Watch the baking time: Remove cookies from the oven when they are just golden around the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy bite.
Best Side Dishes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
While these cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience even more.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the chocolatey goodness perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: Serve mixed berries on the side for a refreshing contrast to the rich cookie flavor.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your cookie for an extra indulgent treat.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds airiness that balances out the dense cookie.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites of this rich dessert.
- Nut Butter: Offer almond or peanut butter as a dip to add a nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate chip cookies.
- Coffee Cake: Serve slices of coffee cake alongside for a delightful brunch option.
- Cheese Platter: A small cheese board can offer savory bites that balance out sweet flavors nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
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Using Warm Butter: Using butter that is not cold can make your cookies spread too much. Always use cold, roughly chopped butter straight from the fridge.
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Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Beat just until combined when adding wet ingredients and again when incorporating dry ingredients.
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Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy or spoon the flour into your measuring cup without packing it down.
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Skipping the Sea Salt Flakes: Not adding sea salt flakes on top can miss out on enhancing the flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt right after baking adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
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Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven properly and check it with an oven thermometer if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Keep a piece of bread in the container to maintain moisture.
Freezing Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Freeze cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months.
- Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container for extra protection.
Reheating Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds for a soft cookie experience.
- Stovetop: Warm cookies covered in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate chips according to your preference.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I add nuts other than walnuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for added flavor and texture.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Your cookies should be golden brown around the edges while still soft in the center. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.
What makes these cookies so thick and chewy?
The cold butter and specific flour measurements contribute to their signature thickness and chewiness, making them irresistibly delicious!
Final Thoughts
These Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only thick and chewy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this recipe a try, and indulge in warm, fresh-baked comfort!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. Known for their super thick and chewy texture, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Each bite reveals rich chocolate melting in your mouth, complemented by the crunch of walnuts and a sprinkle of sea salt that enhances their flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving something sweet, these cookies deliver comfort and satisfaction. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time, ensuring fresh-baked happiness right from your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 115 grams unsalted butter (cold, roughly chopped)
- 190 grams brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (cold)
- 245 grams plain flour
- 1 tablespoon cornflour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 225 grams dark or milk chocolate (chopped)
- 50 grams walnuts (roughly chopped)
- Sea salt flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking trays with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix cold butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer until combined. Add vanilla extract and the cold egg; blend gently.
- Incorporate plain flour, cornflour, baking soda, and optional salt until a soft dough forms. Fold in chopped chocolate and walnuts.
- Scoop about two tablespoons of dough for each cookie onto the prepared trays, ensuring space between them.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Cool completely on the tray before sprinkling with sea salt flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
