Introduction to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
What is the allure of Levain Bakery cookies?
When it comes to cookies, Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies consistently top the list of fan favorites. This beloved bakery, nestled in New York City, has mastered the art of creating giant cookies that are crispy on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside. Have you ever sunk your teeth into a cookie and lost yourself in that perfect combination of warm chocolate and crunchy walnuts? It's an experience that’s hard to forget.
What sets these cookies apart is not just their size but also the quality of ingredients. The use of cold butter and a mix of cake flour with all-purpose flour contributes to that coveted texture; they’re thick, chewy, and undeniably indulgent. And the secret? Levain Bakery doesn’t believe in fuss—no vanilla extract here, just pure cookie goodness.
So, if you're looking to replicate that bakery sensation right in your own kitchen, you're in for a treat. Bringing this classic recipe home allows you to enjoy the delights of Levain's iconic cookies at any time, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your own sweet cravings. Get ready to dive into this mouthwatering, homemade version that pays homage to the original.
For more on the magic of Levain Bakery, check out their official website.
Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Essential ingredients for a classic cookie experience
To recreate the iconic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies at home, it’s crucial to gather the right ingredients. Here are the essentials you’ll need for the perfect cookie:
- 1 cup Cold Butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup Sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 1 ½ cups Cake Flour (note that all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute without sacrificing flavor)
- 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- ¾ teaspoon Baking Soda
- ¾ teaspoon Salt
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips
- 2 cups Walnuts (roughly chopped)
These ingredients work in harmony to create those thick, chewy cookies we all know and love. If you want to explore more about each ingredient's role, check out King Arthur Baking.
Substitutions that won’t compromise flavor
Sometimes, you might not have every ingredient on hand, and that's totally okay! Here are some smart swaps that won’t compromise the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies experience:
- Cake Flour: All-purpose flour works well if you don’t have cake flour. Just remember, cake flour adds tenderness!
- Nuts: If walnuts aren't your thing, feel free to swap them for pecans or even omit them entirely. You won't lose any deliciousness.
- Butter: For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter; it melts and blends just like regular butter without sacrificing that desired richness.
With these pointers, you're well on your way to baking up a storm!
Step-by-step Preparation of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies is not just about baking; it's an experience full of delicious anticipation. With each step, you're one step closer to indulging in a towering cookie filled with gooey chocolate and crunchy walnuts. Let's dive into the preparation!
Gather your equipment
Before you start mixing, it's essential to have all your equipment ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- KitchenAid mixer: A powerful tool to help you cream the butter and sugars.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy sheet to hold your lovely cookie dough during baking.
- Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking.
- Turner and spatula set: Helpful for transferring cookies and mixing.
- Cookie scoop: To achieve perfectly shaped cookies.
Cream the butter and sugars
The first official step is to cream your butter and sugars. In your mixing bowl, add one cup of cold butter (cut into small cubes), one cup of brown sugar, and half a cup of regular sugar. Beat these together for about four minutes until the mixture becomes light and creamy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that signature Levain airy texture.
Integrate the eggs
Now it's time to crack in the eggs! Add two eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This gradual integration ensures even distribution throughout the cookie dough. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract at this stage, even though Levain Bakery doesn't use it. It might just enhance the flavor!
Mix the dry ingredients carefully
In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1.5 cups of cake flour, 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 0.75 teaspoon of baking soda, and 0.75 teaspoon of salt. Gently mix these together using a whisk to ensure they are well-blended. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that lovely cookie dough texture.
Combine the chocolate chips and walnuts
What’s a Levain cookie without the good stuff? Stir in 2 cups of chocolate chips and 2 cups of roughly chopped walnuts using a spatula. This is where you can get creative; if you’re a chocolate lover, feel free to mix in different types like dark or milk chocolate!
Portion and shape the dough
Now, onto the fun part! Using a cookie scoop, portion out your dough into large balls—think golf ball size! Place them on a lightly colored cookie sheet. Leave enough space between each ball; you’ll typically fit four on a large sheet. This dough will yield eight extra-large cookies, so dream big!
Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 410 degrees Fahrenheit and pop those cookies in! Bake for 9-12 minutes until they’ve developed a golden brown exterior. After removing them from the oven, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes to set properly. This step is critical; it lets them firm up while retaining that gooey center.
Voilà! Your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are ready to be devoured. Remember, sharing is caring (but you might want to save a few just for yourself!). Happy baking!
Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Vegan Alternatives for a Plant-Based Treat
Craving those Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies but want to keep it plant-based? No problem! Substitute the cold butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) instead of regular eggs. You’ll still get that rich, gooey texture while making a kinder choice for our furry friends!
Explore more about the benefits of a plant-based diet on Healthline.
Gluten-Free Options Without Sacrificing Taste
For those with gluten sensitivity, you can easily make delicious gluten-free Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies without sacrificing flavor. Swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend and ensure any additions, like chocolate chips, are also gluten-free. Many brands offer suitable options that mimic traditional flour beautifully, ensuring your cookies turn out just as tender and chewy. Check out Bob’s Red Mill for excellent gluten-free flour options.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
The Importance of Cold Butter
Using cold butter is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies. Cold butter helps create that soft, chewy center while keeping the edges nice and crispy. Make sure to cut the butter into small cubes before mixing—this aids in even blending and keeps it from getting too melty too quickly. You might even consider placing your butter in the refrigerator the night before!
Why Resting the Dough Matters
Resting your cookie dough is a game-changer in cookie-making. Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors to meld together and results in a more evenly baked cookie. This step also solidifies the fats, making it easier for the cookies to maintain their shape during baking. If you have time, try resting it overnight for an even richer flavor. Trust me; it’s worth it!
Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Best ways to enjoy your cookies
Ah, Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies — they're a true treat on their own, but think about what makes them even better! Enjoy these cookies warm, with a glass of ice-cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee. The melty chocolate chips paired with the light crunch of walnuts create a delicious contrast. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just indulging yourself, serve them warm for a delightful experience that will impress your friends.
Pairing suggestions for a cozy treat
For a cozy treat, consider pairing your cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly complements the rich, chewy texture of the cookies. Alternatively, a homemade hot chocolate would make for an elegant touch, allowing you to curl up with your favorite book or movie. For some subtle flavor, try sprinkling a little sea salt on top of the cookies before serving; it really enhances that chocolatey goodness!
For more delicious recipes and ideas click here.
Time Breakdown for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies takes about 10 minutes. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper. It’s all about making the process stress-free while you look forward to those warm cookies!
Baking Time
Once the dough is formed, it’s time to bake! These delightful cookies need approximately 11 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is slightly different. The goal is a golden brown top that promises a chewy inside.
Total Time
From start to finish, you're looking at around 21 minutes to achieve cookie bliss. That means in less than half an hour, you can enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of freshly baked cookies. Perfect for a snack or a sweet treat during a busy day!
For more tips on baking and cookie making, check out this guide on cookie science to elevate your skills even further!
Nutritional Facts for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
When indulging in a Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookie, it’s helpful to know what you’re treating yourself to. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts:
Calories per cookie
Each cookie packs a punch with approximately 400 calories. They may be rich, but that’s what makes every chewy bite so satisfying!
Protein content
With about 5 grams of protein per cookie, these treats offer a little boost to help you power through your day, making them perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Sugar and sodium levels
Load up on the sweetness, as each cookie contains around 22 grams of sugar and 200 milligrams of sodium. While they are certainly a sweet delight, enjoying them in moderation is key!
If you’re looking for more detailed nutritional breakdowns, resources like the USDA FoodData Central can provide additional insights. Happy baking!
FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
What can I do if my cookies spread too much?
If you find your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are spreading excessively, it might be due to the temperature of your dough or oven. Ensure your butter is cold when you begin and consider chilling the cookie dough for an additional 15-30 minutes before baking. Additionally, baking on lightly colored sheets can help control the spread, as darker pans tend to absorb heat and lead to over-spreading.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing your cookie dough is a great way to have fresh cookies at your fingertips. Just scoop the dough into individual balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a couple of minutes to your baking time.
How do I make cookies chewy rather than cakey?
To achieve that delightful chewiness in your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, make sure not to overmix the dough and stick to using cake flour. This blend contributes to the desired texture. Reducing the amount of flour slightly can also enhance the chewiness. Lastly, pulling the cookies out of the oven when they are still slightly underbaked will result in a gooey center.
For more baking tips and tricks, check out Serious Eats and King Arthur Baking for expert advice!
Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
In conclusion, Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are the decadent treat you've been searching for. With their crisp exterior and gooey chocolate interior, they've mastered the art of cookie perfection. Don't hesitate to whip up a batch for your next gathering—your friends and family will thank you! For more sweet ideas, check out Baking with Melissa.
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Equipment
- kitchenaid mixer
- baking sheet
- parchment paper baking sheets
- measuring cups and spoons
- turner
- spatula set
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1 cup Cold Butter cut into small cubes
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup Sugar
- 2 large 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
Baking 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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