Super thick and chewy, Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone loves. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging on a regular day, these cookies bring joy with their rich flavors and irresistible texture. Their unique combination of cold ingredients and generous chocolate chunks ensures each bite is heavenly, making them the perfect homemade dessert.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Base Dough
- For the Cookie Structure
- For the Mix-ins
- How to Make Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Step 5: Bake
- How to Serve Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- With a Glass of Milk
- Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Warmed with Nut Butter
- Topped with Sea Salt
- As a Dessert Platter
- How to Perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Best Side Dishes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Reheating Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I substitute brown sugar with white sugar?
- How do I ensure my cookies are thick?
- Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
- How long do these cookies last?
- Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Decadent Flavor: The balance of dark chocolate and buttery richness creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or a cozy night in; they fit any occasion perfectly.
- Thick and Chewy Texture: Unlike standard cookies, these have a satisfying thickness that keeps them soft and chewy.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or even swap out chocolate types for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking trays
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a well-blended dough.
- Baking trays: High-quality trays ensure even baking, preventing burnt bottoms on your cookies.
Ingredients
Super thick and chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies made from scratch.
For the Base Dough
- 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
For the Cookie Structure
- 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
For the Mix-ins
- 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 paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the cold butter and brown sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until combined. Then add vanilla extract and the cold egg. Mix again until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add in the plain flour, cornflour, baking soda, and salt if using. Beat on low speed until a soft cookie dough forms. Gently fold in the chopped chocolate and walnuts just until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough for each cookie. Place them on the prepared baking trays, leaving enough space for spreading while baking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cookies for 12–14 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once baked, let them cool completely on the trays before sprinkling sea salt flakes on top.
Enjoy your homemade Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies!
How to Serve Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, here are some creative serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these thick cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the cookie’s rich flavors.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create indulgent ice cream sandwiches by placing your favorite ice cream between two warm cookies. This adds an exciting texture and flavor contrast.
Warmed with Nut Butter
- Spread almond or peanut butter on a warm cookie for an extra layer of creaminess and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate chips.
Topped with Sea Salt
- Sprinkle additional sea salt flakes on top just before serving to elevate the sweetness and create a more complex taste experience.
As a Dessert Platter
- Serve an assortment of cookies on a platter along with fruit, cheeses, and nuts for a beautiful dessert spread perfect for entertaining.
How to Perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Achieving the perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies requires attention to detail in your preparation. Follow these tips for optimal results.
- Use cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are cold to maintain the cookie’s thick, chewy texture during baking.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the dough tender and prevent tough cookies.
- Scoop generously: Use about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie to achieve that signature thickness.
- Chill the dough: If time allows, chill your dough for an hour before baking. This helps enhance the flavors and texture.
- Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are golden brown but still soft in the center for maximum chewiness.
- Let them cool: Allow cookies to cool completely on the tray before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Serving side dishes alongside Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with fruits and marshmallows allows guests to dip their cookies for an extra decadent treat.
- Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses pairs beautifully with sweet cookies, especially creamy varieties like Brie or goat cheese.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae station where guests can top their cookies with ice cream, sauces, and sprinkles.
- Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors of chocolate chip cookies while offering a delightful caffeine kick.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an added layer of sweetness that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Mini Cupcakes: Offer mini cupcakes in various flavors as an alternative dessert option, perfect for those who want something lighter.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Serve freshly whipped cream on the side for dipping or topping, providing a light and airy texture against the dense cookie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using warm butter: When you use warm butter, your cookies may spread too much. Always use cold, chopped butter for a thicker cookie.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Skipping the chilling time: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Allow the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using imprecise measurements can affect texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Place unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking tray and freeze until solid.
- Transfer frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 180 C (350 F). Bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covering with a lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies:
Can I substitute brown sugar with white sugar?
Yes, you can use white sugar, but it may change the flavor and texture slightly, making them less chewy.
How do I ensure my cookies are thick?
To achieve thick cookies, avoid overmixing and use cold ingredients. Chilling the dough also helps maintain thickness while baking.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts like walnuts or even different types of chocolate.
How long do these cookies last?
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies can last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature or longer if frozen.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze well! You can freeze both baked cookies and raw cookie dough for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different mix-ins or adjust the sweetness to suit your preference. We encourage you to try making these thick and chewy delights—your taste buds will thank you!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. These super thick and chewy delights are famed for their rich, buttery flavor and generous chunks of chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy nights in to festive gatherings, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The secret lies in using cold ingredients and a careful baking process that preserves their luscious texture. With this easy recipe, you can recreate the magic of bakery-style cookies right at home.
Ingredients
- 115 grams (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, cold and chopped
- 190 grams (1 cup) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large cold egg
- 245 grams (1 and 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 225 grams (1 and 1/2 cups) dark or milk chocolate, chopped
- Optional: 50 grams (1/2 cup) walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180 C (350 F). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cold butter and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream until combined. Add vanilla extract and the cold egg; mix just until combined.
- Gradually add flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt if desired. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in chocolate chunks and walnuts.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie onto the prepared trays, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes until golden brown but still soft in the center. Allow cooling on trays before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (85g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
