These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. Known for their enormous size and thick, gooey centers, these cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal indulgence. With a rich flavor from semi-sweet chocolate chips and walnuts, this recipe elevates the traditional chocolate chip cookie to a whole new level of decadence. Ideal for birthday parties, family get-togethers, or just a cozy night in, these cookies will impress everyone who tries them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Extra Large Size: These cookies are massive! Each one is about 6 ounces, perfect for cookie lovers who enjoy a hearty treat.
- Gooey Interior: The soft and chewy center makes each bite melt in your mouth. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common ingredients you likely have on hand, this recipe is easy to follow even for novice bakers.
- Versatile Flavor: While the classic chocolate chip and walnut combination shines, feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits.
- Perfectly Underbaked: Baking them just right ensures they stay soft and luscious in the middle while achieving a golden exterior.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious cookies, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool saves time and minimizes effort when mixing butter and sugars to create that creamy texture.
- Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier, allowing your cookies to bake evenly without burning on the bottom.
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 Cookies
- 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)
- 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
- 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 it aside while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the cold butter along with both sugars. Mix on medium speed until light and creamy; this should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Add eggs one at a time into the mixture. Mix well after each addition and be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and kosher salt. This mix will help create that perfect cookie texture.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the butter mixture while mixing on low speed. Continue until just combined; over-mixing can lead to dense cookies.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Gently mix in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout your dough.
Step 7: Shape Dough Balls
Divide your cookie dough into 9 equal portions; aim for about 6 ounces each. Shape each portion into a rough ball but do not flatten them. Place these dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Chill Dough
Transfer your shaped dough balls to the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours if you want to prepare ahead.
Step 9: Preheat Oven
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line three large baking sheets with parchment paper as well.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Place chilled cookie dough balls on baking sheets spaced about 3 inches apart—about four per sheet. Bake for 10-11 minutes until edges are golden brown but centers remain slightly underbaked.
Step 11: Cool Before Enjoying
Allow baked cookies to rest on sheets for about 10-15 minutes before digging in! Enjoy these giant delights warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
These indulgent cookies are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or serving them at a party, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy your Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
With Ice Cream
- Scoop some vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top of a warm cookie for an irresistible dessert.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for added sweetness and decoration.
As a Dessert Sandwich
- Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies to create a delightful cookie sandwich.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve alongside a bowl of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
Paired with Coffee
- Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee or espresso for a classic pairing that enhances the flavors.
How to Perfect Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making the best Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter helps achieve that thick, chewy texture characteristic of these cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill enhances flavor and prevents spreading during baking.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dense cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding the flour mixture. Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of soft.
- Watch the Baking Time: Remove cookies when they are golden on the edges but still slightly underbaked in the center. They will continue to cook out of the oven.
Best Side Dishes for Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great side dish options.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with warm chocolate chip cookies.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits provide a light contrast and balance the richness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Milkshake: This indulgent drink complements the cookie’s flavors and adds extra sweetness.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances out the sweetness, making it an ideal pairing.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess and is perfect for dipping your cookie.
- Nut Butter Spread: Spread almond or peanut butter on half of your cookie for a delicious twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your baking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using softened butter: Softened butter can lead to flat cookies. Always use cold, cubed butter for that thick, chewy texture.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies spreading too much. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes to maintain shape.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and gooey.
- Incorrect measuring of flour: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements of both cake and all-purpose flour.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at a lower temperature may cause undercooked cookies. Make sure your oven reaches 400°F before baking for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Place unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.
Reheating Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat cookies individually on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies unique?
These cookies are known for their extra-large size, thick texture, and gooey center filled with chocolate chips and walnuts, setting them apart from standard chocolate chip cookies.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! You can use different types of nuts or even omit them completely. You could also replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on your preference.
How do I achieve a gooey center in my Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Chilling the dough is crucial! It helps keep the cookie thick while allowing the center to remain soft and gooey during baking.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Look for golden brown edges while ensuring the center appears slightly underbaked. The residual heat will finish cooking them as they cool.
Final Thoughts
These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just a treat; they offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They are perfect for any occasion and can be customized with various mix-ins such as different nuts or types of chocolate. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the indulgence of bakery-style cookies right at home!
Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. Known for their impressive size and thick, gooey centers, these cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie. Each bite bursts with rich flavors from semi-sweet chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts, making them perfect for any occasion—from birthday parties to cozy nights in. With a simple recipe that uses common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up these heavenly treats with ease. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or paired with ice cream, these cookies are sure to impress!
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups cake flour
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups walnuts (roughly chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, cream cold butter with both sugars for about 3-4 minutes until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Divide dough into nine equal portions (approx. 6 ounces each) and shape into balls without flattening.
- Chill dough balls for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain slightly underbaked.
- Allow cookies to cool on sheets for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 66g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Use cold butter for the best texture. Chilling the dough helps maintain shape during baking. Feel free to substitute different nuts or chocolates for customization.
