Levain Bakery chocolate chip cookies
Indulge in Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Imagine biting into a cookie that’s crisp on the outside, yet soft and gooey on the inside, with pockets of melted chocolate in every bite. These Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
This recipe captures the essence of what makes Levain Bakery’s cookies so legendary. You’ll love the thick, chewy texture and the perfect balance of sweetness. Plus, they’re easy to make and require simple ingredients you likely already have at home. The optional addition of walnuts adds a satisfying crunch, making these cookies irresistible.
Kitchen Equipment Youβll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Ice cream scoop
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 410Β°F (210Β°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the cold cubed butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, if using.
- Using an ice cream scoop, scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Use cold butter to achieve the perfect texture. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading.
- Donβt overmix the dough once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. The cookies should be golden on the edges but still soft in the center for the best texture.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
- Experiment with adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a sweet and salty twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each cookie provides approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 18g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Do I have to use walnuts?
No, the walnuts are optional. They add a nice crunch, but the cookies are delicious even without them.
Why is my dough so thick?
The dough is meant to be thick and sturdy to create the signature Levain-style cookies. If it seems too difficult to mix, you can use your hands to gently combine the ingredients.
Conclusion
These Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that brings bakery-style indulgence right to your kitchen. Give them a try and experience the magic for yourself! We’d love to hear about your baking adventures and any creative twists you add to this classic recipe. Enjoy every delicious bite!
