Copycat Levain Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the decadence of these Copycat Levain Cookies, perfectly thick and chewy, just like the original!
These Copycat Levain Cookies are inspired by the famous New York City bakery, known for their oversized, gooey cookies. With a perfect balance of chocolate and dough, this recipe captures the essence of those beloved treats right in your own kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Thick, gooey texture that satisfies every cookie craving
- Loaded with rich chocolate chips and walnuts for a delightful crunch
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!)
The Secret to Thick and Chewy Cookies
Achieving the perfect thick and chewy cookie is an art, and our Copycat Levain Cookies are the masterpiece you’ve been craving. The trick lies in using a generous amount of butter and sugar, which not only adds richness but also helps create that irresistible gooey center. By creaming the butter and sugars until they become light and fluffy, you introduce air into the mixture, giving your cookies a delightful rise.
Another essential component is the balance of dry ingredients. By whisking together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl before combining them with the wet ingredients, you ensure an even distribution of the leavening agent, resulting in perfectly baked cookies. Remember, mixing just until combined is key; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chocolate and Walnut Bliss
What makes these Copycat Levain Cookies truly stand out is the luxurious combination of chocolate chips and walnuts. The rich, melty chocolate provides an indulgent sweetness that complements the nutty crunch of walnuts. If you’re a chocolate lover, feel free to add more chocolate chips, or even try using different varieties like dark or white chocolate for a unique twist.
For those who prefer a nut-free option, simply skip the walnuts without sacrificing any flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can customize it to suit your taste preferences while still achieving that beloved Levain cookie experience. Each bite will be a delightful surprise, whether you choose to keep it classic or mix it up!
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cookies are not just a treat; they bring joy to any gathering or celebration. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, Copycat Levain Cookies are the perfect companion. Their impressive size and gourmet appearance make them a standout dessert that friends and family will rave about.
Additionally, these cookies store well, making them ideal for meal prep or making ahead for busy weeks. Just keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. You can even freeze the dough to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving hits. Simply scoop the dough into balls, freeze, and bake straight from the freezer, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Ingredients
Copycat Levain Cookies Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Mix all ingredients thoroughly for best results!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
Scoop the Dough
Using a large cookie scoop, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the Cookies
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
Cool and Enjoy
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Copycat Levain Cookies!
Tips for Best Results
For the best results, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This step is crucial as it helps in achieving that light and fluffy texture when creaming with the sugars. If you're short on time, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Be mindful of your oven temperature as well; an oven thermometer can be a handy tool to ensure accuracy. Baking at the right temperature is essential for achieving that perfect golden edge while keeping the center soft and gooey.
Serving Suggestions
While these cookies are delicious on their own, you can elevate the experience by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. This creates a delectable dessert that’s reminiscent of a classic cookie sundae, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
For a fun twist, consider drizzling a bit of melted chocolate or caramel over the cookies just before serving. This extra touch adds visual appeal and an additional layer of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can mix dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor.
→ How should I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
→ What can I substitute for walnuts?
You can leave them out or substitute with pecans, almonds, or even dried fruit.
Copycat Levain Cookies
Indulge in the decadence of these Copycat Levain Cookies, perfectly thick and chewy, just like the original!
Created by: Violet Hart
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 cookies
What You'll Need
Copycat Levain Cookies Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
Using a large cookie scoop, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g