Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie, fresh out of the oven, bursting with melty chocolate and a hint of crunch from perfectly toasted walnuts. If that sounds like bliss to you, then this Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is your ticket to cookie heaven. Inspired by New York City’s famed Levain Bakery, these cookies are an indulgent treat that every cookie lover should experience at least once. The delightful combination of textures and flavors makes them a favorite for both casual bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
Why Make This Recipe
- Thick, chewy texture that brings back memories of classic homemade cookies.
- A perfect balance of sweet and savory with the addition of walnuts.
- Simple enough for beginners, yet satisfying for experienced bakers.
These aren’t just any cookies; they’re the kind that make you pause, take a deep breath, and enjoy every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, celebrate a special occasion, or simply satisfy your own sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to delight.
Simple Way to Prepare Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking might seem daunting, but with this straightforward guide, you will have these heavenly cookies in no time. Follow these steps, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies.
Ingredients
To prepare these mouthwatering cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, ensuring even distribution.
- Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, scoop out generous balls of dough (about 1/4 cup each) and place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. This is key to achieving that gooey texture.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Keeping Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies Fresh
To enjoy your decadent cookies for longer, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3–5 days for optimal freshness.
- Refrigerate: You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but expect a firmer texture.
- Freeze: Freeze the cookies for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Best Ways to Serve Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are divine on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- With Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert.
- Fresh Fruit Compote: Serve with a warm berry compote for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Coffee Pairing: Enjoy alongside a hot cup of coffee or a cool glass of milk for a classic combo.
- Gift Wrapping: Wrap in cellophane and present them as homemade gifts for friends and family.
Tips to Make Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Here are some essential tips to keep your cookies perfect:
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
- Don’t over bake; slight underbaking gives you that gooey center we all love.
Variations or Substitutions
Looking to mix things up? Here are a couple of variations you can try:
- Different Nuts: If you are not a fan of walnuts, consider using pecans or macadamia nuts for a different twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, scoop it into balls, and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: What if I don’t have walnuts?
A: You can either omit them entirely or substitute with another type of nut or even seeds, like sunflower seeds, for added crunch.
Q: What’s the secret to chewy cookies?
- Use room temperature ingredients.
- Avoid overmixing the dough.
- Slightly underbake for that perfect gooey center.
Baking these Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s also about creating a delightful experience that brings people together. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven, with a scoop of ice cream, or as a topping on your favorite dessert, these cookies are sure to be a standout addition to any gathering.
As you bake, you’ll find the process therapeutic and the results rewarding. The act of creating something so delicious contributes to that warm, homey feeling we all cherish. So, the next time you crave a sweet treat, remember this recipe. You can easily replicate the magic of Levain Bakery right in your own kitchen, spreading the joy of fresh-baked cookies one bite at a time.
Bake a batch today and share them with those you love, or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here! With these Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, each mouthful is a moment of bliss, a comforting reminder of the simple pleasures in life. Enjoy every moment, and happy baking!
Print
Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in thick, gooey chocolate chip cookies inspired by New York City’s Levain Bakery, featuring melty chocolate and toasted walnuts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Scoop out balls of dough (about 1/4 cup each) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden and centers look slightly underbaked.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For maximum freshness, store cookies in an airtight container for 3-5 days. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.