𝑪𝒐𝒑𝒚𝒄𝒂𝒕 𝑳𝒆𝒗𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝑩𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒉𝒐𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝑪𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑪𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒆𝒔
Introduction
Levain Bakery is famous for its oversized, gooey, and irresistibly delicious cookies. Their chocolate chip cookies have captured the hearts of dessert lovers around the world. This copycat recipe brings the indulgent Levain experience right to your kitchen! With a crisp exterior and molten center, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
To make 8-10 large cookies, you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed
¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
Add-ins
2 large eggs
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
- Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mixing the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer, beat cold butter and sugars until just combined (do not overmix).
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing until incorporated.
- Combine Dry and Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Shaping and Baking
- Divide dough into 8-10 large balls (approximately 6 oz each). Do not flatten them; keep them thick for a gooey texture.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown but the centers are soft.
- Let cookies rest for 15 minutes before serving.
History of Levain Bakery Cookies
Levain Bakery was founded in 1995 in New York City by Connie McDonald and Pam Weekes. Their goal was to create the ultimate chocolate chip cookie, and they succeeded with their signature oversized, gooey cookies. These cookies quickly gained a cult following and have become an iconic NYC treat.
Benefits of Making Your Own Cookies
- Freshness: Homemade cookies are always fresher than store-bought.
- Customization: Adjust ingredients to suit your taste (e.g., add dark chocolate or omit nuts).
- Cost-effective: Making cookies at home is budget-friendly.
- Control Over Ingredients: Avoid preservatives and artificial flavors.
Formation and Texture
The thick dough balls ensure the cookies stay soft and gooey in the center while crisping on the outside.
Cold butter and minimal mixing prevent over-spreading.
Baking at a high temperature creates a caramelized crust.
Nutrition (Per Cookie)
Calories: ~450
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 35g
Why Chocolate Chip Cookies Are Loved
Chocolate chip cookies are beloved because they evoke comfort, nostalgia, and joy. The balance of sweet and salty, paired with gooey chocolate and a buttery base, makes them irresistible. Levain-style cookies amplify this love with their larger size and satisfying texture.
Conclusion
This copycat Levain Bakery chocolate chip cookie recipe is a celebration of indulgence. With their golden crust and gooey center, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re reminiscing about your NYC trip or simply craving a rich dessert, this recipe delivers.
For the Cookie Lovers
This recipe is perfect for chocolate chip cookie enthusiasts who appreciate a decadent treat. Share these cookies with loved ones, or enjoy them solo with a glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee!