Introduction to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
A Sweet Escape from Fast Food Cravings
When the afternoon slump hits or your sweet tooth starts calling, it’s tempting to reach for the nearest fast food treat. But what if you could indulge in something far more satisfying and downright delicious? Enter the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies. These heavenly creations are not your ordinary cookies; they’re a unique blend of thick, gooey chocolate goodness packed with a delightful crunch from walnuts.
Originating from the renowned Levain Bakery in New York City, these cookies have earned a reputation for being some of the best around. Each bite feels like a warm hug, bringing together the rich flavors of sweet brown sugar and silky chocolate chips in a perfectly baked shell. With ingredients you can feel good about, these cookies are a wonderful alternative to processed snacks.
By using this easy-to-follow copycat recipe, you can experience the joy of baking at home while enjoying the cheerful aroma of fresh cookies wafting through your kitchen. Plus, sharing these with friends is a surefire way to brighten anyone’s day! So, are you ready to start your cookie adventure? Let’s dive into the ingredients and tools you'll need to make your very own Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies.
Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Essential ingredients for the perfect cookie
Creating your own Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies at home is a delightful experience, and it all starts with the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you'll need for these decadent cookies:
- 1 cup Cold Butter (cut into small cubes): Using cold butter helps create a rich texture and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
- 1 cup Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and a deep flavor, contributing to that classic cookie chewiness.
- ½ cup Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the sweetness and helps with texture.
- 2 Eggs: They provide moisture and structure, binding everything together.
- 1 ½ cups Cake Flour: For a light, tender crumb, cake flour is key. (You can substitute all-purpose flour if needed.)
- 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour: A blend of flours gives these cookies the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch: This helps to create a soft and chewy texture.
- ¾ teaspoon Baking Soda: Essential for leavening, giving your cookies that ideal rise.
- ¾ teaspoon Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips: Go for semi-sweet or dark chocolates for a rich and satisfying bite.
- 2 cups Walnuts (roughly chopped): Toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch and depth.
With these ingredients, you're well on your way to baking some scrumptious cookies! Pair them with milk or your favorite alternative for a nostalgic treat that never fails to impress. If you want to explore more about using quality ingredients, check out Serious Eats for a deep dive into baking fundamentals.
Step-by-step preparation for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Baking the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies at home is an amazing way to treat yourself or impress friends. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be on your way to cookie heaven in no time!
Gather your equipment
Before diving into baking, it’s essential to have your equipment ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- KitchenAid mixer: This handy tool makes the mixing process a breeze.
- Baking sheet: Ensure you have a sturdy one that can hold those hefty cookies.
- Parchment paper: Line your baking sheet to avoid any sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in baking!
- Turner: A must-have for transferring cookies to and from your baking sheet.
- Spatula set: These will help you mix and scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Cookie scoop: For uniform cookie sizes.
Prepare the cold butter and sugars
Start by cutting your cold butter into small cubes. Using cold butter is crucial; it helps create that lush, thick texture these cookies are known for. Add the cold butter cubes to your KitchenAid mixer along with 1 cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Beat this mixture on medium speed for about 4 minutes, or until it’s creamy and slightly fluffy. The key here is to combine the flavors well without melting the butter.
Incorporate the eggs
Once your butter and sugar mixture is creamy, it's time to add the eggs. Add them one at a time to ensure a smooth incorporation. Mix on a low speed and make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to capture all that deliciousness.
Mix the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together your cake flour, regular flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial; it ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing here can lead to tough cookies—nobody wants that!
Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts
It's now time for the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is where those gooey pockets of chocolate magic begin to form.
Shape the cookie dough
Using your cookie scoop, separate the dough into large balls. Trust me; they’ll be bigger than you think! Place them on the lined baking sheet, keeping some space between them as they spread out while baking. You'll likely fit 4 cookies on one large sheet, which is perfect!
Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 410 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake your cookies for about 9 to 12 minutes, or until they're golden brown on top. Yes, they might look slightly underbaked—that’s okay! Let them rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set up beautifully.
Now that you know how to make Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, why not indulge yourself in this delightful baking experience? Happy baking!
Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Nut-free options
If you're looking to enjoy Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies without nuts, simply omit the chopped walnuts from the recipe. For an added layer of flavor, consider mixing in a few extra chocolate chips or even some dried fruit, like cranberries or cherries. This keeps the cookie's texture delightful while ensuring it's safe for those with nut allergies. You can also explore nut-free butters, such as sunbutter, for a fun twist on classic flavors.
Vegan adaptations
Transitioning this recipe to a vegan version is easier than you might think! Swap the cold butter for your favorite vegan butter substitute and replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. For each egg, use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water—let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use plant-based chocolate chips, and you'll have delicious, chewy Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies that everyone can enjoy!
If you’re keen on more vegan baking tips, check out resources from The Vegan Society. Happy baking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When baking Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to dodge to ensure success:
- Using softened butter: It's essential to use cold butter to achieve that chewy, gooey texture. This can be a game-changer!
- Overmixing the dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, and we want soft and fluffy.
- Not spacing cookies properly: These cookies spread out a bit, so give them plenty of room on the baking sheet (try just four per tray).
- Ignoring the resting time: Allowing cookies to rest after baking is key for them to set perfectly. Patience will pay off!
With these tips in mind, you're set to impress everyone with your Levain-style cookies! Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Best Ways to Enjoy These Cookies
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are delicious on their own, but here are some fun serving suggestions that can elevate your cookie experience:
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Warm and Gooey: For a warm treat, pop the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds. This melt-in-your-mouth sensation highlights the chocolate chips, making each bite irresistibly gooey.
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Ice Cream Sandwiches: Take two cookies and sandwich your favorite ice cream in between for a decadent dessert. Vanilla or cookies-and-cream flavors work wonders!
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Pair with Milk or Coffee: There's something nostalgic about enjoying cookies with a glass of cold milk. If you're more of a coffee person, savor these cookies alongside a rich espresso to balance the sweetness.
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Create a Dessert Platter: Serve these cookies on a platter with fresh fruit, nuts, and chocolate drizzle for an enticing dessert spread at your next gathering.
Feel free to get creative! How do you like to enjoy your cookies? Share your ideas below! For more inspiration, check out this article on fun dessert pairings for even more ideas!
Time Breakdown for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
When you're ready to whip up a batch of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, it's helpful to plan out your time. Here’s a quick breakdown to keep you organized:
Preparation Time
Get your ingredients ready in just 10 minutes. Start by measuring out your flour, sugar, and chocolate, then cream your cold butter and sugars together. You’ll be able to smell that heavenly aroma in no time!
Baking Time
Once your dough is set and portioned, pop those cookies in the oven for about 11 minutes. Watch for that golden brown top; it’s a good sign you’re close to cookie perfection.
Total Time
In just 21 minutes, you’ll have fresh, delicious cookies to enjoy! Whether it’s for a last-minute gathering or just a sweet treat, these cookies are ready before you know it.
As you bake, don’t forget to have a chat with friends or family. They might want to join in for some taste testing once they come out of the oven! For more baking tips or cookie inspiration, check out Baker's Journal or Serious Eats. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
When it comes to indulging in delicious cookies, understanding the nutritional content can help you enjoy them guilt-free. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies:
Calories
Each cookie packs approximately 300 calories, making it a rich treat that’s perfect for sharing—or sneaking a bite after a long day.
Fat Content
With about 18 grams of fat per cookie, these cookies deliver the rich and decadent taste you expect from a bakery-style dessert. Most of this fat comes from the butter and chocolate, contributing to their irresistible texture.
Sugar Content
Each cookie contains roughly 18 grams of sugar, giving you that sweet satisfaction you crave. Balance is key, so enjoying these cookies in moderation will keep your sweet tooth happy!
Whether you're preparing these cookies for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, knowing their nutritional profile can help enhance your overall dessert experience. For those looking to make healthier swaps or adjustments, consider using alternatives like whole grain flour or reducing sugar slightly.
To find out more about the health benefits of different ingredients, visit sources like Healthline or Verywell Fit for insightful tips on balancing indulgence with nutrition. Enjoy baking and savor each bite!
FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
What makes Levain cookies different?
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are renowned for their giant size and gooey texture. What sets them apart is the unique combination of cake flour and all-purpose flour, which creates that wonderfully chewy interior while retaining a golden, crisp exterior. Plus, the generous amount of chocolate chips and chopped walnuts makes every bite a decadent experience. For more insights on what makes these cookies so special, check out this article from Food52.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a fantastic idea. Simply scoop the portions into balls and place them on a lined baking sheet in the freezer for a couple of hours. Once frozen solid, transfer them into a freezer bag for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, you can either thaw them overnight in the fridge or bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to your baking time.
How do I store leftover cookies?
If you have any leftover Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies (hard to believe, right?), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them or freezing, as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy the incredible taste of freshly baked cookies any day of the week!
Feel free to drop any more questions in the comments; we’re here to help you make the most of your cookie baking adventures!
Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Savor the homemade difference!
These Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies deliver an indulgent experience right from your own kitchen. With a delectable contrast of gooey chocolate and crunchy walnuts, each bite is a delightful revelation. Experiment with your favorite mix-ins and embrace the joy of baking! Creating these cookies not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fills your home with the comforting aroma of fresh-baked goodness. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this culinary delight!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Equipment
- Kitchenaid mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- measuring cups and spoons
- Turner
- Spatula set
- cookie scoop
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 for cake 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. 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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