Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a true treat for cookie lovers. With their oversized, thick structure and a soft, gooey center, these cookies are loaded with rich chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging during a cozy night in, this recipe takes the classic chocolate chip cookie to new heights of deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Texture: The combination of a crisp outer layer and a chewy center makes each bite delightful.
• Loaded with Flavor: Generous amounts of semi-sweet chocolate chips and walnuts elevate the taste to an indulgent level.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual get-together, these cookies impress every time.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute or add your favorite nuts or chocolate types for personalized flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious cookies, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool ensures that the butter and sugars blend perfectly, creating a creamy base for your cookies.
• Baking sheets: Using multiple sheets allows you to bake several batches efficiently without waiting too long in between.

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Ingredients

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are extra large, extra thick cookies with a soft, gooey inside and loaded with chocolate chips and walnuts. The supersized cookie takes a chocolate chip cookie to a whole new level of indulgence!

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, (cold, cubed)
• 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, (packed)
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, (room temperature)

For the Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (170 g) cake flour
• 1 ½ cups (187.5 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Mix-Ins

• 2 cups (364 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups (234 g) walnuts, (roughly chopped)

How to Make Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed until light and creamy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and kosher salt until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Mix in the chocolate chips and walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape Dough Balls

Divide the dough into 9 equal portions (about 6 ounces each). Shape each portion into rough balls without flattening them. Place these onto your lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line additional large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place chilled cookie dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart (approximately four per sheet).

Step 10: Check for Doneness

Bake for about 10-11 minutes or until golden brown around edges but still slightly underbaked in the middle.

Step 11: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow baked cookies to rest for about 10-15 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy!

How to Serve Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae.

Warm and Fresh

• Serve the cookies warm right out of the oven, allowing the chocolate chips to melt even more for that gooey texture.

Dipped in Milk

• Enjoy these cookies by dipping them in a glass of cold milk. The combination is classic and satisfying.

With Coffee or Tea

• Accompany your cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.

As Cookie Sandwiches

• Create cookie sandwiches by adding your favorite frosting or whipped cream between two cookies for an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

To ensure your Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill enhances flavor and helps create that thick texture.

• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold, cubed butter helps achieve a light and fluffy cookie consistency.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon and level method when measuring flour to avoid dense cookies.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Bake in Batches: Bake only one tray at a time to ensure even cooking and prevent uneven browning.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip additional fruits or marshmallows into melted chocolate beside your cookies for extra indulgence.

4. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts offers crunch and saltiness that pairs perfectly with sweet flavors.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a nutritious side that complements the richness of the cookies.

6. Pudding Cups: Creamy pudding cups provide another layer of dessert satisfaction alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Boldly measuring flour: Too much or too little flour can change the cookie’s texture. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.

• Ignoring butter temperature: Using butter that is too warm will result in flat cookies. Ensure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing.

• Overmixing dough: Mixing too long after adding the flour can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for thick cookies. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the best results.

• Not spacing cookies properly: Crowding the baking sheet will lead to merged cookies. Leave enough space between each dough ball (about 3 inches) while baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing freshness.

Freezing Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place on a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making these cookies even better, here are some frequently asked questions:

How do I make Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, ensuring similar ratios for proper consistency.

Can I use different nuts in my Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace walnuts with pecans or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.

What chocolate should I use in Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a classic taste, but dark chocolate or even milk chocolate can add unique flavors as well!

How long do Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly, these cookies remain fresh for up to five days at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only indulgent but also versatile! With their thick, gooey center and rich flavors from chocolate chips and walnuts, they are sure to please anyone who loves dessert. Feel free to customize them by adding different nuts or using various types of chocolate chips according to your preference!