Introduction to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
When it comes to cookie lovers, few names resonate like Levain Bakery. Founded in New York City, this bakery has skyrocketed to fame for its towering, gooey chocolate chip cookies. But what is it that makes these cookies such a go-to for dessert enthusiasts?
What makes Levain Bakery cookies a go-to for cookie lovers?
First and foremost, it’s the texture. Levain Bakery chocolates are notorious for their colossal size, and each bite delivers a perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. It’s a cookie experience that transcends the ordinary. Did you know that Levain's cookies weigh around six ounces each? That's a hefty indulgence that’s hard to find elsewhere!
Another appealing aspect is their flavor. The use of high-quality ingredients, combined with generous chunks of dark chocolate and optional nuts, makes every bite sublime. It's widely accepted among baking enthusiasts that the right ratio of ingredients truly makes a difference, and Levain nails it every single time.
Want a deep dive into the world of these cookies? Check out more about Levain Bakery on their official website or see what others say on Yelp. If you're ready to embark on your own baking adventure, keep reading for our straight-from-the-source recipe for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
When it comes to baking cookies, having the right ingredients is essential, especially for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. This rich and indulgent treat is known for its gooey texture and delightful balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these unforgettable cookies.
The Essentials
- Unsalted Butter: You’ll need 115 grams (½ cup or 1 stick) of cold, roughly chopped butter. This helps create the thick and chewy texture we all love.
- Brown Sugar: A full cup (190 grams) adds depth and moisture to your cookies, giving them that rich caramel flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: One teaspoon enhances the overall taste, making every bite a nostalgic experience.
- Egg: Just one large cold egg acts as a binding agent, helping the cookies hold their shape.
Flour & More
- All-Purpose Flour: You’ll require 245 grams (1 and ¾ cups) of flour for structure.
- Cornflour: One tablespoon of cornflour or cornstarch softens the texture. Don’t fret if you don’t have any; an extra tablespoon of flour will do!
- Baking Soda: A ½ teaspoon helps the cookies rise, achieving that perfect thickness.
- Pinch of Salt: While optional, a pinch can always elevate the flavors.
Chocolate and Nuts
- Chocolate: Grab 225 grams (1 and ½ cups) of your favorite dark or milk chocolate, chopped by hand.
- Walnuts: If you're a fan, add 50 grams (½ cup) of roughly chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch. Not a nut lover? Feel free to switch them out or add more chocolate!
Final Touch
- Sea Salt Flakes: A sprinkle on top right out of the oven takes these cookies to the next level!
With these ingredients on hand, you're just a few steps away from enjoying homemade Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. Ready to get baking?
Step-by-step preparation of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with a delicious aroma. These cookies are not just any ordinary treat; they are super thick and chewy, a true testament to the joy of baking. Let’s walk through each step together!
Preheat your oven and line your trays
Before diving into making the dough, you want to set the stage for baking perfection. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) if you’re using a standard oven, or 160°C (320°F) for a fan-forced one. While the oven warms up, grab two baking trays and line them with parchment paper. This simple step ensures that your cookies won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup afterward.
Cream the cold butter and sugar mixture
Now it’s time to get mixing! In a large mixing bowl, take your cold, roughly chopped butter—yes, it should be straight from the fridge!—and add the brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until just combined; you want a nice, creamy texture without overworking it. Ideally, the mixture should be a bit grainy—this will help achieve that perfect cookie texture later on.
Add in the egg and vanilla extract
Once your butter and sugar are blended, it’s time to add the cold egg and vanilla extract. Beat them in until just combined. The egg adds moisture and structure, while the vanilla delivers a rich flavor that elevates your cookies. Remember, overmixing here can lead to tough cookies, so mix gently and efficiently.
Mix the dry ingredients into the dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, cornflour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt (if using). Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix on a low speed until the dough comes together. This is where the magic happens as the flour binds everything, creating the foundation of your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Incorporate the chocolate and walnuts
What's a chocolate chip cookie without chocolate? Fold in the chopped chocolate and walnuts (if you're using them) until evenly distributed. The chocolate chunks will melt slightly during baking, creating gooey pockets of deliciousness, while the walnuts add that perfect crunch.
Scoop and space out the dough on trays
Using a generous scoop (about ¼ cup or 80 grams) for each cookie, place the dough onto your lined trays, ensuring they are well-spaced. Remember, this dough is hefty, so give it room to spread!
Bake until golden brown
Finally, pop your trays in the oven and bake your cookies for 12-14 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown. The key here is to watch them closely; you want them to be slightly underbaked in the center for optimum chewiness. Once they come out, let them cool completely before sprinkling with sea salt flakes for that added touch of flavor.
In just seven steps, you’re on your way to making homemade Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies! Enjoy the process, and delight in the results!
Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adding Different Chocolate Types
One of the best parts about making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies is the opportunity to experiment with different types of chocolate! While dark chocolate yields a rich, deep flavor, switching to milk chocolate will create a sweeter, creamier cookie. You can even mix chocolate types for a delectable result—try adding white chocolate chips alongside dark for a beautiful contrast in both color and taste. Don't be afraid to toss in some chocolate chunks for that famous gooey center!
Experimenting with Nuts or Leaving Them Out
Nuts add a lovely crunch and flavor to your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, but they’re totally optional! Walnuts are a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with pecans or macadamias. Prefer a nut-free version? Simply double up on the chocolate—more chocolate means an even thicker, more indulgent cookie! And did you know that nut allergies affect about 1-2% of the population? With this in mind, it’s great to have a nut-free option for gatherings.
For more creative alternatives, check out this guide on nuts and their substitutes!
Cooking Notes and Tips for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cold Ingredients Matter
Using cold butter and eggs is key to achieving the chewy texture synonymous with Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring a thick, irresistible bite.
Mixing Tips
When combining ingredients, beat just enough to bring everything together. Over-mixing can lead to tougher cookies. Embrace a light hand!
Chill Your Dough
If you find your cookies are spreading more than expected, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes. This can enhance the texture and help maintain that delightful thickness.
Experiment with Add-Ins
Feel free to play with mix-ins. Whether you prefer more chocolate or a different type of nut, making adjustments can personalize your cookie experience. Want to learn more? Check out this guide on cookie customization.
Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s nothing quite like indulging in freshly baked Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. To elevate your experience, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
- Accompany with a chilled glass of milk: The classic duo of cookies and milk can never go wrong.
- Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream: Imagine warm, gooey cookies paired with creamy vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert.
- Pack them for a picnic: These thick, chewy cookies are perfect for sharing outdoors; they hold up well and taste fantastic.
- Gift a batch to friends: Homemade cookies make thoughtful gifts. Wrap them in a cute box for an extra touch.
Explore more creative serving ideas on Taste of Home or Serious Eats. The versatility of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies makes them an all-time favorite!
Time breakdown for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Preparation time
Getting the ingredients together and mixing your cookie dough for these Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies takes about 30 minutes. It’s a straightforward process, and you’ll love how quickly your kitchen turns aromatic!
Baking time
Once prepped, bake your cookies for 12 to 14 minutes, until they are beautifully golden brown. The magic happens fast, so keep an eye on them!
Total time
From start to finish, you’re looking at approximately 44 minutes to create a batch of these delightful cookies. And trust me, every minute will be worth it when you take that first, sweet bite!
For more baking tips, check out resources like King Arthur Baking, which offers fantastic insights on achieving cookie perfection.
Nutritional facts for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
When you're treating yourself to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, it's nice to know what you're indulging in. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content to keep you informed:
Calories
Each cookie contains approximately 300 calories. While these delightful bites are rich and satisfying, portion control can help maintain a balanced diet.
Protein
Packed with about 3 grams of protein per cookie, these treats deliver a little boost to your day. It's not a significant amount, but every bit helps when you’re enjoying a delicious treat!
Sugars
You can expect around 15 grams of sugars in each cookie. While they’re certainly sweet, remember that moderation is key—these cookies are meant to be savored.
For more information on understanding nutritional labels and making smart choices, check out resources from the American Heart Association or Harvard Health. Enjoy baking and indulging in your homemade Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!
FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
What can I do if my cookie dough is too soft?
If your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies dough feels too soft, don't worry! This can happen for a few reasons, often related to temperature. Try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm it up. You could also add a little more flour to achieve the right consistency. Remember, the goal is to have a dough that holds its shape but isn't overly dry.
Are there substitutions for the ingredients?
Absolutely! If you're missing any ingredients, here are some tips:
- Butter: Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
- Chocolate: Feel free to swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate, or even try white chocolate for a different twist.
- Nuts: If you want a nut-free cookie, just double the chocolate chips!
How can I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make them last longer, consider freezing them. Just place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll stay delicious for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Enjoying Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies is truly a delightful experience! With their thick, chewy texture and rich chocolatey goodness, they are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you're sharing them with friends or indulging solo, these cookies are sure to impress. Get baking and savor the moment!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- baking trays
- parchment paper
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 115 grams unsalted butter COLD (straight from the fridge), roughly chopped
- 190 grams brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg cold
Dry Ingredients
- 245 grams plain flour or all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornflour or cornstarch If you don’t have any cornflour, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt optional
Add-ins
- 225 grams dark or milk chocolate chopped by hand
- 50 grams walnuts roughly chopped
Finishing Touch
- Sea salt flakes
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180 C (350 F) standard / 160 C (320 F) fan-forced. Line two baking trays with baking or parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, add cold butter and sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until combined. Add vanilla and egg. Beat again until combined – but try not to over mix.
- Add flour, cornflour, baking soda and salt, if using, and beat on a low speed until soft cookie dough forms. Add chocolate and walnuts and beat briefly.
- Scoop out cookie dough (roughly ¼ cup or 80 grams per cookie), and place on prepared oven trays, leaving room for the cookie to spread.
- Bake cookies for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Leave cookies to cool completely. Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top.
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