Levain Bakery Cookie Recipe: Best Copycat at Home
Standing in line at Levain Bakery, the smell of fresh cookies was irresistible. Taking a bite of their famous chocolate chip walnut cookie, I knew it was something special. The mix of crispy edges, soft center, and crunchy walnuts was a baking dream come true.
If you’ve been searching for the perfect Levain Bakery cookie recipe, your search ends here. In this guide, I’ll share how to make these amazing cookies at home.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Levain Bakery’s signature chocolate chip walnut cookie recipe has been around for over 25 years.
- Chilling the cookie dough is crucial for achieving the perfect thick and chewy texture.
- The cookies should be baked to an internal temperature of 175°F to 200°F for the ideal fudgy and set edge consistency.
- Levain Bakery cookies are 6 oz (170g) each, larger than typical cookies.
- The recipe calls for a mix of all-purpose and cake flour for the perfect cookie texture.
Introduction to Levain Bakery Cookies
In a small basement shop in New York City, Levain Bakery is famous for its huge cookies. They have a crispy outside and a soft, gooey inside. It was started over 24 years ago by two friends, Pam McDonald and Connie Weekes, who wanted to make the best cookie in the world.
What Makes Levain Cookies Unique?
Levain cookies are huge, weighing about six ounces each. They have a lot of ingredients, like 1 cup of butter and 1 1/4 cups of brown sugar. They also have 3 large eggs, 2 cups of flour, and 2 cups of chocolate chips and walnut halves.
These cookies are special because of their texture. They have a crispy outside and a soft, gooey inside. This mix of textures makes them very popular.
A Brief History of Levain Bakery
Levain Bakery started in 1995 by Pam McDonald and Connie Weekes. They were into baking and fitness. Their chocolate chip walnut cookie became famous, helping the bakery grow.
Now, Levain Bakery has many locations in New York City and beyond. But they still focus on making the perfect cookie.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Cookie
To make the perfect Levain Bakery-style cookies at home, you need the right ingredients. You’ll need the perfect mix of sugars and high-quality chocolate chips. Each ingredient is key to getting that soft, chewy texture and rich flavor.
Key Ingredients Explained
The base of these classic cookie recipes is cold, cubed unsalted butter. This ingredient makes the cookies tender and flaky. You also need two sugars: light brown sugar and granulated sugar. The brown sugar adds moisture, while the granulated sugar balances the sweetness.
Eggs are important for binding the dough and helping the cookies hold their shape. Cake flour and all-purpose flour together make the cookies soft and tender. Cornstarch adds to the softness and makes the cookies pillowy.
Levain Bakery cookies wouldn’t be the same without cookie baking tips – semisweet chocolate chips and toasted walnuts. These add amazing flavor and texture to the cookies.
Tips on Ingredient Quality
- Use cold, cubed unsalted butter for the best texture and flavor.
- Opt for light brown sugar for a chewier, more moist cookie.
- Choose high-quality chocolate chips that make up a significant portion of the cookie.
- Toast the walnuts to bring out their natural oils and enhance the overall flavor.
- Measure ingredients precisely for consistent results, using a kitchen scale if possible.
By choosing and mixing these essential ingredients, you’ll be on your way to baking classic cookie recipes just like Levain Bakery. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate soft, chewy, and indulgent cookie experience at home.
Equipment You’ll Need
To bake perfect Levain Bakery-style cookies at home, you need some key baking equipment. You’ll need a stand mixer and the right baking sheets. Having the right tools makes a big difference in getting those thick, gooey cookies.
Must-Have Baking Tools
- Stand mixer or electric hand mixer – Essential for thoroughly mixing the dough ingredients.
- Baking sheets – Opt for heavy-duty, light-colored baking sheets or lined with parchment paper for even browning.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – These prevent cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mixing bowls – Several medium-sized bowls for mixing the dough and ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key for consistent results.
- Cooling rack – Allows cookies to cool completely without steaming or becoming soggy.
Optional Gadgets That Help
While not strictly necessary, some extra tools can make baking cookies easier and more efficient:
- Internal oven thermometer – Ensures your oven is preheated to the right temperature for perfect baking.
- Kitchen scale – Provides precise measurements, especially for dividing the dough into equal portions.
- Dough scoop or ice cream scoop – Helps create uniform cookie shapes and sizes.
With the right baking equipment, you can make the famous Levain Bakery cookies in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Dough
Making the perfect cookie dough is key to baking delicious Levain Bakery-style cookies at home. Follow these steps to mix and chill the dough. This ensures the dough has the right texture and flavor.
Mixing the Ingredients
Start by cubing cold, unsalted butter and putting it in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Cream the butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts by hand.
Chilling the Dough
- Divide the dough into 6-ounce portions and shape each into a rough ball.
- Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours.
- Chilling the dough is crucial for developing the cookie dough preparation and baking techniques that result in the signature Levain Bakery cookie texture – a crisp exterior with a soft, gooey center.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to recreating the iconic Levain Bakery cookies in your own kitchen.
Baking: Timing and Temperature
To bake the perfect Levain Bakery-style cookie at home, focus on temperature and timing. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is crucial for the cookie’s crisp exterior and gooey center.
Preheating the Oven
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures even heat and proper baking. Once it’s at the right temperature, you’re ready to bake.
How to Achieve That Perfect Bake
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway for even browning.
- The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are soft.
- Check for doneness with an internal thermometer. They should be 175°F for fudgy or up to 200°F for well-done.
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes. This helps them set and get their craggy tops.
By watching the oven temperature and baking time, you can make Levain Bakery cookies at home. With practice, you’ll make cookie baking tips that are just as good as the original.
Flavor Variations to Try
While the classic chocolate chip walnut cookie from Levain Bakery is a treat, don’t be shy to try new cookie flavors and chocolate chip varieties. Explore and find new favorites that match your taste.
Classic Chocolate Chip Walnut
Begin with the famous Levain recipe. It has a rich, buttery dough with semi-sweet chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts. This mix is what makes Levain’s cookies so loved.
Other Flavor Combinations
Want to try something new? Here are some tasty options:
- Peanut Butter Chip Cookies: Use creamy peanut butter chips for a nutty flavor.
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Add old-fashioned oats and raisins for a chewy, comforting cookie.
- White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies: Use white chocolate chips and buttery macadamia nuts for a unique taste.
- Dark Chocolate Cherry Cookies: Enjoy the deep flavor of dark chocolate chips with tart cherries.
There’s no limit to what you can do with the Levain cookie. Try different cookie flavors and chocolate chip varieties to find your new favorite.
Storing and Keeping Your Cookies Fresh
Keeping your homemade Levain-style cookies fresh is key to enjoying them fully. You can enjoy them right away or save some for later. Here are a few easy tips to keep your cookies soft, chewy, and full of flavor.
Best Ways to Store Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from drying out or picking up bad smells. You can keep them fresh for up to 3 days. For longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing for Later
Freezing is great for keeping cookies fresh longer. Levain cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw the dough at room temperature or warm the cookies in the oven. Avoid microwaving to keep the soft and chewy center.
Proper storage is essential for keeping your homemade cookie storage fresh and tasty. Whether you enjoy them now or later, these tips help you enjoy Levain cookies at home.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Baking homemade cookies can sometimes present a few challenges, but with a little troubleshooting, you can achieve the perfect results every time. Whether your cookies are spreading too much or turning out dry and crumbly, we’ve got you covered with solutions to common cookie troubleshooting and baking problems.
Preventing Flat, Spreading Cookies
If your cookies tend to spread out too much during baking, the culprit is likely the temperature of your butter. Ensure that the butter is well-chilled before mixing the dough, and be sure to chill the dough for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, before baking. This helps the dough firm up and prevents excessive spreading.
Fixing Dry or Crumbly Cookies
Overbaking is often the reason for dry, crumbly cookies. Keep a close eye on the baking time and reduce it if necessary. You can also try adding an extra egg yolk to the dough, which will help keep the cookies moist and tender.
| Cookie Issue | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Cookies Spreading Too Much | – Warm or room-temperature butter – Insufficient chilling of dough | – Use cold, chilled butter – Chill dough for at least 4 hours or overnight |
| Dry, Crumbly Cookies | – Overbaking – Incorrect dry-to-wet ingredient ratio | – Reduce baking time – Add an extra egg yolk to the dough |
By addressing these common cookie troubleshooting and baking problems, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying perfectly baked homemade cookies every time.
Serving Suggestions
Make your homemade Levain Bakery-style cookies even better with creative serving ideas. These ideas highlight their amazing texture and taste. Enjoy them with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for a classic treat.
Pairing with Milk or Coffee
Dunking a fresh Levain cookie in cold milk or rich coffee is a treat. The mix of warm cookie and cool drink is perfect. Serve them together for a traditional and tasty dessert.
Creative Presentation Ideas
- Try serving the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent ice cream sandwich.
- Break the cookies in half to showcase the gooey, molten center when presenting them to guests.
- Arrange the cookies artfully on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an elevated cookie serving ideas display.
- For a whimsical dessert presentation, stack the cookies high and finish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
No matter how you serve these homemade Levain Bakery-inspired cookies, your guests will love them. They’ll be impressed by their bakery-quality taste and look.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Cookies
Congratulations on making the famous Levain Bakery cookies at home! These treats are perfect for sharing with friends and family. They’re great for any occasion, from special events to casual get-togethers.
Sharing with Friends and Family
Get your loved ones together and show off your cookies. Place them on a platter or in a rustic basket. Serve with milk or coffee for a complete treat. The smell and taste of these cookies will make everyone want more.
They might even ask for the recipe. Your baking skills will impress them all!
Making It a Fun Baking Tradition
Make baking Levain Bakery cookies a regular family activity. Let everyone help with mixing, scooping, and decorating. It’s a great way to bond and create memories.
Try different flavors like nuts, sea salt, or Reese’s cups. Find your favorite mix. Enjoy these cookies in moderation as part of a healthy diet. Savor the homemade goodness.