Name: Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Cold Butter (cut into small cubes); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Sugar; 2 pieces Eggs; 1 1/2 cups Cake Flour (*); 1 1/2 cups Flour; 1 teaspoon Cornstarch; 3/4 teaspoon Baking Soda; 3/4 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Chocolate Chips; 2 cups Walnuts (roughly chopped)

Introduction to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade cookies. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the warm, gooey centers of cookies fresh from the oven—it’s a sensory experience that takes you back to simpler times. When you make your own cookies, you control the ingredients, ensuring they are not only delicious but also made with love and care. Plus, it’s a great excuse to experiment in the kitchen!

If you’ve ever tasted Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, you know they're legendary. With their thick, chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor, these cookies are a true indulgence. Often hailed as some of the best cookies in New York City, they bring a level of bakery quality right into your home.

Making this recipe feels like a special occasion every time, whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply enjoying a quiet evening with friends. And guess what? It’s easier than you think. You don’t need fancy equipment to whip up these delightful treats—just a solid mixer, a few ingredients, and a pressing urge to create something special.

For more tips on baking the perfect cookie, check out this insightful article from the American Cookie Association. Dive into the joy of baking, and get ready to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Essential ingredients for the perfect cookie

To replicate those rich and sumptuous Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, you'll need a few essential ingredients that come together for that decadent flavor and chewy texture:

Cold Butter: Using 1 cup of cold butter cut into small cubes is key to achieving that creamy consistency while keeping the cookies thick.
Brown Sugar and Sugar: 1 cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of sugar balance sweetness and moisture.
Eggs: Two eggs bring richness and structure to your cookies.
Flour Mixture: A combination of 1 ½ cups of cake flour and 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour gives you the right amount of lift and chewiness.
Leaveners and Salt: Add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, ¾ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¾ teaspoon of salt to enhance flavors and texture.
Chocolate Chips and Walnuts: 2 cups of chocolate chips and roughly chopped walnuts provide that irresistible chocolatey crunch.

For more about the science behind these ingredients, check out Serious Eats.

Optional ingredients for customization

While the base recipe is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to make it your own! Here are some optional ingredients you can explore:

Nut Alternatives: Try swapping walnuts for pecans, or simply omit them for a nut-free variation.
Flavor Enhancers: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or espresso powder for an extra flavor kick.
Different Chocolate: Mix and match chocolate chips; dark chocolate or even white chocolate can add unique flavors.

Getting creative with your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies ensures they'll always taste unique and delightful! What combinations do you envision trying?

Preparing Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

When it comes to making the perfect cookie, the process can be just as sweet as the treat itself. Let’s dive into the steps for preparing Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, a delightful recipe that will satisfy any sweet tooth!

Gather Your Equipment

Before you begin, it’s essential to have all your tools ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

KitchenAid mixer or a hand mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
Measuring cups and spoons
A turner for flipping your cookies
A spatula set for mixing
A cookie scoop to get those perfect cookie shapes

Having your equipment at hand not only saves time, but it also makes the baking experience more enjoyable. Plus, who doesn't love a clean and organized countertop to work on?

Creaming the Butter and Sugars

Now, let’s get down to business. Start by combining cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in your mixing bowl. Cream these together for about four minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies that delightful rise and texture.

Mixing in the Eggs

Once your butter and sugars are creamed to perfection, it’s time to add in the eggs—one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition, ensuring that everything is fully incorporated. This helps the eggs to bind the mixture and adds moisture to your cookies.

Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to your butter and sugar combo. Mix until just combined; remember, overmixing can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be thick and somewhat sticky!

Adding Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Now it’s the moment we’ve been waiting for—chocolate chips and walnuts! Gently fold these into the dough using a spatula or wooden spoon. This step is all about the joy of mixing in those delicious bits that will turn every bite into cookie heaven.

Shaping and Arranging the Cookies

Take your dough and divide it into large balls—these cookies are meant to be big! Place four dough balls on a lightly colored cookie sheet, giving them plenty of space to spread out as they bake. Remember, each ball should be about the size of your palm for that authentic Levain Bakery experience!

Baking to Perfection

Finally, preheat your oven to 410 degrees Fahrenheit and get ready to bake. Place your cookie sheet in the oven and bake for 9 to 12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top. Once baked, allow the cookies to rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up and makes for a chewier bite.

And there you have it—now you’re just a few steps away from enjoying those Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies! The sweet aroma filling your kitchen will make waiting to indulge almost unbearable. So, who’s ready to dig in?

Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Nut-free version

If you love the idea of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies but need to avoid nuts, simply leave out the walnuts. This substitution allows the rich chocolatey goodness to shine through without compromising flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost, ensuring every bite is indulgent.

Gluten-free adaptation

For a gluten-free take on these delicious cookies, swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture. You can find some fantastic options at stores like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Baking. The key to keeping the cookies moist is to watch baking time closely, as gluten-free cookies can be sensitive to over-baking. Enjoy the delightful crunch while accommodating those with dietary restrictions!

Baking notes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Importance of chilled butter

Using cold butter is crucial for achieving the signature texture of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies. When butter is cold, it incorporates air into the dough during mixing, leading to a wonderfully chewy texture after baking. This method not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. If you find the butter is too soft or at room temperature, simply pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before you start mixing.

Avoiding overmixing

Mixing your dough just until combined is essential for keeping these cookies tender and thick! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tougher cookie. So, once you add your dry ingredients, give it a gentle stir until you see no more flour, and then stop. Trust me, the gooey chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts will absorb your attention, creating a delightful cookie experience every bite of the way!

Need more tips on baking? Check out King Arthur Baking's guide on cookie science for a deeper dive into the art of cookie making!

Serving suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Pairing with coffee or milk

Indulging in Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies is a treat, but pairing them with a beverage elevates the experience. Enjoy these cookies with a steaming cup of rich coffee or a chilled glass of milk. The robust flavor of the coffee complements the chocolate while milk offers a sweet contrast. Consider trying a vanilla latte or even a dairy-free option like almond milk for a delightful twist.

Ideal occasions for serving

These cookies shine at various gatherings and occasions, making them versatile treats. Picture hosting a cozy game night, where friends come together for laughter and fun. Placing a platter of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies on the table invites everyone to dig in. They’re also perfect for birthdays or casual office snacks, as their size makes sharing easy. Got a potluck? These cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Their deliciously decadent flavor ensures they're always the star of the show.

Whether it's a casual afternoon or a festive celebration, offering these cookies will surely bring smiles to the room.

Tips for making perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Storing cookies properly

To keep your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will maintain their soft center and delectable chewiness. If you prefer a crispy edge, just leave them exposed for a day or two. For optimal flavor, enjoy them within a week!

Freezing cookie dough for later

Want to indulge in fresh cookies anytime? Freeze your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies dough! Simply scoop the dough into individual portions, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag for easy storage. When the cookie cravings hit, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Perfect for spontaneous treats!

Time Details for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

When it comes to baking the perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, timing is everything! Here’s a quick breakdown of how your baking experience will unfold:

Preparation Time

The prep time for these delicious cookies is just 10 minutes. This quick setup lets you dive straight into the fun part—baking!

Baking Time

Once your cookies are ready for the oven, bake them for 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they're best when golden brown on top and slightly underbaked in the center.

Total Time

In just 21 minutes, you’ll have freshly baked cookies to enjoy. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet treat to wow your friends!

Now that you’re equipped with the timing, why not gather the ingredients and try your hand at these scrumptious cookies? The team at The Kitchn has some great tips for perfecting your baking skills along the way!

Nutritional Information for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Calories per cookie

Each of these scrumptious Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies packs about 380 calories, making them a delightful indulgence. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Protein content

These cookies aren’t just tasty; they’re also a source of energy! With around 4 grams of protein per cookie, they can help keep you fueled during your busy day.

Sugar content

Sweetness is key in cookies, and these don’t hold back. Each cookie contains about 25 grams of sugar, balancing the rich chocolate and nutty flavors perfectly.

For those looking for a delicious treat that combines flavor and energy, these cookies are sure to hit the spot! If you're interested in learning more about cookie nutrition, check out resources like NutritionData for additional insights. Enjoy baking!

FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Can I substitute the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are famous for their generous chocolate chip quota, feel free to mix it up. You can use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, white chocolate for something sweeter, or even chopped chocolate bars for a more gourmet touch. Nuts, like almonds or pecans, can also add a delightful crunch!

How should I store leftover cookies?

To keep those cookies fresh and delicious, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll last for about a week at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing individual cookies. Just wrap them tightly and pop them in the freezer. When you're ready for a treat, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore that fresh-baked allure.

What if I want to make smaller cookies?

No problem at all! If you prefer smaller bites, simply divide the dough into smaller balls. Keep in mind that baking times will vary; check for doneness after about 7-9 minutes. Just keep an eye on them for that perfect golden-brown finish.

Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

In conclusion, Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are not just another dessert; they are a delightful experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen. With their rich, chewy texture and gooey chocolatey goodness, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family. Go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite! For more cookie inspiration, be sure to check out this guide to cookie baking tips.