Levain Bakery in NYC is renowned for its Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC. These cookies are massive, soft, and gooey delights that bring joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a cozy family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this recipe will help you create cookies that boast a crisp exterior and a chewy middle. With the perfect balance of flavors from chocolate and walnuts, these cookies will be the star of your dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Delicious – The combination of rich chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts creates an unforgettable flavor experience.
- Easy to Follow – With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can bake these amazing cookies at home.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – These cookies are great for parties, gifts, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
- Customizable – Feel free to use your favorite type of nuts or chocolate to make this recipe uniquely yours.
- Quick Preparation – In just 25 minutes, you can have fresh-baked cookies straight from your oven!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your delicious cookies, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer – Saves time and effort by quickly creaming butter and sugars together for that perfect texture.
- Baking sheets – Ensures even baking by providing a flat surface for your cookie dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of ingredients for optimal flavor.
Ingredients
To recreate the famous Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cookies
- 1 cup cold butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or your favorite type)
- 2 cups walnuts (roughly chopped)
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl:
1. Add the cold butter cubes to the bowl.
2. Mix in both sugars until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes on medium speed.
Step 3: Add Eggs
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is mixed well.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Once combined:
1. Gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts using a spatula until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop:
1. Portion out large balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
2. Leave enough space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Step 7: Bake Your Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Once baked:
1. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
2. Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
These delicious chocolate chip cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair your cookies with cold milk for the classic combination that never gets old. The creaminess of the milk complements the rich chocolate perfectly.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Top each cookie with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Vanilla or salted caramel work wonderfully to add an extra layer of sweetness.
Warm and Fresh
- Serve cookies warm straight from the oven. The gooey chocolate will melt in your mouth, providing an unforgettable experience.
Coffee or Tea Time
- Enjoy cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The warmth of the beverage enhances the flavors of the cookie.
Cookie Sandwiches
- Create cookie sandwiches by placing a layer of frosting or whipped cream between two cookies. This adds more texture and flavor to each bite.
How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
Getting the perfect chocolate chip cookie requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality chocolate chips and fresh butter for richer flavor. This makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to maintain a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
- Experiment with Nuts: If you love variety, try adding different nuts like pecans or almonds along with walnuts for a unique twist on flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
Chocolate chip cookies can stand alone, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can create an unforgettable dessert spread. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to rich cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light dessert that pairs well with sweet cookies.
- Cheese Plate: Offer a selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, which can add savory notes alongside your sweet treats.
- Nut Butter Dip: Serve creamy almond or peanut butter as a dip for added richness that enhances the flavor of each bite.
- Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with fruit, marshmallows, and pretzels creates an interactive dessert experience that’s fun and delicious.
- Pudding Cups: Individual servings of chocolate or vanilla pudding provide an extra creamy element that complements chewy cookies nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Bold Ingredient Miscalculations: Always measure your ingredients correctly. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them overly gooey.
- Bold Not Chilling the Dough: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much during baking. Aim for at least a 30-minute chill in the refrigerator.
- Bold Overbaking the Cookies: Keep an eye on the timer! Overbaking can result in hard cookies. Remove them when they’re golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center.
- Bold Skipping Chopped Nuts: The recipe calls for walnuts, which add texture and flavor. Don’t leave them out; they’re essential for that classic Levain Bakery taste!
- Bold Incorrect Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly before baking. An inconsistent temperature can affect cooking time and cookie texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Use short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC, here are some common questions and answers:
How do I achieve a chewy texture?
To get that chewy texture, ensure you don’t overbake your cookies. Remove them from the oven when they are just set and still soft in the middle.
Can I use different nuts?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, feel free to substitute with pecans or even omit nuts if preferred.
What chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips give a nice contrast of sweetness, but you can use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your taste preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage options.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC bring the rich flavors and textures of New York’s famous bakery right into your home. With their crispy exterior and chewy center, they’re perfect for any occasion. Plus, feel free to customize them by adding different types of nuts or chocolate chips according to your preference!
Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
Indulge in the delightful world of homemade chocolate chip cookies with this easy-to-follow recipe inspired by the iconic Levain Bakery in NYC. These cookies are known for their massive size, soft and gooey center, and a perfectly crisp exterior. With rich chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts, they are sure to become a favorite at any gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself. Enjoy the satisfaction of baking these delicious cookies in just 25 minutes and savor the comforting flavors that make each bite unforgettable!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 large cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 ½ cups cake flour
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or your choice)
- 2 cups walnuts, roughly chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together cold butter and both sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt; then gradually add to wet ingredients on low speed.
- Gently fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Scoop large balls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Allow cooling on baking sheets for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (70g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Experiment with different types of nuts or chocolate varieties for unique flavors.
