Introduction to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
If you’ve ever wandered through New York City and stumbled upon Levain Bakery, you know that their cookies are nothing short of legendary. One bite of their Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies and you’re instantly captivated by their gooey centers and crispy edges. These cookies have gained a cult following, not just for their taste but also for their sheer size—the perfect treat for any cookie lover looking for a delicious indulgence!
So, what makes Levain Bakery cookies a must-try? The answer lies in their unique combination of quality ingredients and a perfected baking method that elevates cookies to new heights. Each cookie incorporates generous portions of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts, creating a perfect balance of textures. The use of cake flour, combined with cold butter, is a Game Changer that results in a soft, pillowy interior while keeping the edges delightfully crisp.
Plus, these cookies are relatively easy to make at home, so you can bring a taste of that bakery experience right to your kitchen! If you’re curious about how to recreate the magic, stick around for this detailed recipe that gets you one step closer to cookie paradise.
Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
To create those indulgent Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, gathering the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup Cold Butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup Sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 1 ½ cups Cake Flour (feel free to substitute with all-purpose flour)
- 1 ½ cups Flour
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- ¾ teaspoon Baking Soda
- ¾ teaspoon Salt
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips (the richer and creamier, the better!)
- 2 cups Walnuts (roughly chopped for added crunch)
Using cold butter is a game-changer; it helps achieve that perfect texture we all crave.
For those who might have nut allergies, feel free to leave out the walnuts or substitute them for something else, like dried fruit or seeds! These ingredients come together to make cookies that are crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Ready to dive into the next steps of the baking adventure? Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Creating your very own Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies at home is both exciting and rewarding. Let’s dive into the process with these easy steps.
Gather and Measure All Ingredients
Before you jump into mixing, take a moment to gather your ingredients:
- 1 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 ½ cups cake flour (alternative: all-purpose flour)
- 1 ½ cups regular flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 2 cups walnuts, roughly chopped
Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!
Cream the Butter and Sugars Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold cubed butter, brown sugar, and sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream them together for about four minutes. You'll want a light and creamy texture, which is essential for that perfect cookie chewiness. The key here is patience—allow the mixer to do the work for you.
Incorporate the Eggs and Mix Thoroughly
Next, introduce the eggs into the mix, one at a time. This blending step is crucial as it helps bind your ingredients and adds moisture. Mix thoroughly after each addition until fully combined. This will ensure a smooth consistency throughout your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies.
Combine Dry Ingredients Carefully
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your creamy butter and sugar blend. Remember, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which is definitely not what we want!
Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Now, it’s time for the fun part—fold in those chocolate chips and chopped walnuts! Use a spatula to gently mix them into the dough. You want the chocolate to be evenly distributed without overworking the dough. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy nuts will give your cookies that signature flavor.
Portion the Dough and Prepare for Baking
Using an ice cream scoop, portion the dough into large balls—think generous size! Place them on a lightly colored cookie sheet, ensuring adequate spacing. You can fit about four of these hefty cookies on one baking sheet. This recipe should yield approximately eight extra-large cookies.
Bake the Cookies to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 410 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the cookies for about 9 to 12 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown on the top. Once out of the oven, resist the urge to dig in right away! Let them rest on the baking sheet for at least ten minutes to settle.
With these simple steps, you’ll have your very own batch of delightfully chewy Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies. Enjoy the process—there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen! Happy baking!
Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Unique twists to the classic recipe
While the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are undeniably delicious on their own, adding unique twists can elevate your cookie game. Try mixing in different types of chocolate—dark, milk, or even white chocolate can create a delightful flavor profile. For a hint of spice, incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt. Feeling adventurous? Add in some dried cherries or even crushed pretzels for that sweet and salty combo.
Ingredient substitutions for dietary needs
It’s easy to customize these cookies for dietary restrictions! If you’ve got gluten sensitivities, swap out regular flour for gluten-free flour blends. Need to avoid dairy? Use vegan butter or coconut oil as a substitute. For a nut-free version, simply leave out the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. You can still enjoy the luxurious texture and flavor of the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies while catering to everyone's needs!
For inspiration, check out The Kitchn or the Minimalist Baker for more ingredient swaps and cookie tips.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Making the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies at home can be a delightful experience! Here are a few insider tips to elevate your baking game:
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Butter Temperature Matters: Use cold, cubed butter as specified. This helps create that dreamy, chewy texture that makes these cookies famous.
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Measuring Flour: For accuracy, spoon the flour into your measuring cups and level it off. Too much flour can result in dry cookies!
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Chilling the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. It allows the flavors to meld and enhances the texture.
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Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Every oven is different, and they should be slightly underbaked for that perfect gooey center!
For more tips on cookie baking, check out Serious Eats for expert advice. Enjoy your baking!
Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Pairing your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies with delightful accompaniments can elevate your treat experience. Here are some friendly suggestions to enjoy your cookies to the fullest:
- Milk: A classic choice, whether it’s whole, almond, or oat milk, to balance the richness of the cookies.
- Coffee: Savor them alongside your favorite brew; the chocolate flavors harmonize beautifully with a rich latte or an espresso.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Try sandwiching a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream between two cookies for a decadent dessert.
- Fruit: Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a refreshing contrast and can cut through the sweetness perfectly.
Don’t forget to share your cookie moments on social media! #LevainCookies
Time Breakdown for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Preparation time
Get ready to bake! The preparation for these Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies takes about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to ensure your butter is cold and cut into cubes, setting the stage for that perfect creamy texture.
Baking time
When you're ready to bake, pop those beautiful dough balls into the oven for about 9-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the goal is a golden-brown top that promises a delightfully gooey center!
Total time
In total, you're looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick treat or a surprise dessert for guests! Check out more tips and variations on baking cookies for a truly enriching experience on sites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit. Enjoy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
When indulging in the delightful Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, it's good to know what you're treating yourself to! Here’s a friendly breakdown of their nutritional content:
Calories
Each cookie packs a generous amount of approximately 700 calories. Great for a decadent treat but something to savor in moderation!
Protein
You’ll find about 8 grams of protein in each cookie. This protein boost, thanks to the eggs and walnuts, helps balance out the sweetness a bit.
Sodium
These cookies contain roughly 300 milligrams of sodium each. While they’re rich in flavor, it's worth keeping an eye on your sodium intake throughout the day.
For those looking for more nutritious options or tips on healthier substitutions, consider visiting resources like the USDA FoodData Central for in-depth nutritional information! Enjoy your cookie experience responsibly!
FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
What makes these cookies different from regular chocolate chip cookies?
One of the standout features of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies is their incredible size and chewy texture. Unlike traditional chocolate chip cookies, which tend to be flatter and more crisp, Levain cookies are thick and pillowy with a delightful crunchy exterior. The combination of cake flour and all-purpose flour contributes to their unique softness. Plus, the generous mix of chocolate chips and walnuts delivers a rich flavor and satisfying crunch that is hard to resist.
How can I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong their deliciousness, you can also refrigerate them. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying for that fresh-baked taste!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies dough is a great way to have fresh cookies on hand. After forming the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you're ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly gooey cookies whenever you crave them!
Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies bring a delightful twist to the classic cookie experience. With their rich flavor and indulgent texture, these cookies are perfect for sharing or savoring alone. Following this recipe guarantees a delicious outcome that you and your friends will love. Enjoy baking!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Equipment
- oven
- mixing bowl
- Cookie Sheet
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cold Butter cut into small cubes
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup Sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 1 ½ cups Cake Flour *can substitute all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups Flour
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- ¾ teaspoon Baking Soda
- ¾ teaspoon Salt
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips
- 2 cups Walnuts roughly chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 410 degrees.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together cold cubed butter, brown sugar, and sugar for 4 minutes or until creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each one.
- Stir in flours, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Separate dough into large balls and place on lightly colored cookie sheet. They are bigger than you think! You will fit 4 cookies on one large cookie sheet. The dough makes 8 extra large cookies.
- Bake for 9-12 minutes or until golden brown on the top. Let them rest for at least 10 minutes to set.
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