Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a decadent treat that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are perfect for any time. Their extra-large size, thick texture, and gooey chocolate chip center elevate the classic cookie experience to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra Large Size: These cookies are not your average cookies; they are giant and satisfying, making them perfect for sharing.
• Gooey Texture: With a soft, chewy inside and a slightly crispy outside, each bite is a delightful experience.
• Loaded with Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Easy to Make: Made with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious cookies in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or as an everyday indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps achieve the light and creamy texture needed for the dough without manual effort.
• Parchment paper: It prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet and ensures even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls keeps your ingredients organized for better mixing.

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Ingredients

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies require simple yet effective ingredients to create that perfect cookie.

For the Dough

• 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

Mix-ins

• 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 the Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Add cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
2. Mix on medium speed until light and creamy, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Add eggs one at a time:
1. Mix well after each addition.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Mix in chocolate chips and walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into 9 equal portions (about 6 ounces each):
1. Shape each portion into a rough ball without flattening them.
2. Place dough balls onto the lined baking sheet.
3. Transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Line three large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place chilled cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheets:
1. Space each about 3 inches apart (approximately four per sheet).
2. Bake for 10–11 minutes until golden brown around edges but still slightly underbaked in the middle.

Step 10: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow baked cookies to rest for about 10–15 minutes before enjoying them warm!

How to Serve Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a treat, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.

Pair with Milk

• A classic combination, serving these cookies with cold milk enhances their flavor and texture. The creamy milk complements the chocolate chips perfectly.

Add Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The contrast of warm and cold creates a delightful experience.

Create Cookie Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to make a delicious sandwich filled with your favorite frosting or ice cream. This adds an exciting twist and makes them even more enjoyable.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. The rich flavors of the cookies balance well with the warmth of your beverage.

Pack for Lunchboxes

• These oversized cookies make great additions to lunchboxes. Their size and taste will surely be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Gift in Decorative Boxes

• Present these cookies in decorative boxes tied with ribbons as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Everyone loves homemade treats!

How to Perfect Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

To ensure your Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips for baking success.

• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold, cubed butter helps create that desired thick texture. It prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking allows the flavors to meld and leads to thicker cookies. Aim for at least 30 minutes of chill time.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep it gentle!

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be golden brown on the edges but slightly underbaked in the center for that gooey texture.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for richer flavor. The better the chocolate, the more delicious your cookies will be!

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

While these Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience even further.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the rich sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh berries for a light side that complements cookie indulgence.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer a variety of cheeses alongside crackers; savory cheese pairs surprisingly well with sweet cookies.
4. Nut Mix: A blend of almonds, walnuts, and pistachios adds crunch and flavor contrast to soft cookies.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruit or cookie halves into warm chocolate fondue for added decadence.
6. Coffee Cake: Serve slices of coffee cake alongside your cookies for an extra sweet touch during brunch gatherings.
7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar where guests can top ice cream with crumbled cookie pieces—a fun way to enjoy both desserts!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Using room temperature butter: Cold, cubed butter creates the perfect texture. Remember to use cold butter for a thicker cookie.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing activates gluten, leading to a denser texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is essential. It helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances flavor.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements. Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. An incorrect temperature can result in uneven baking.
• Ignoring resting time after baking: Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them set properly and improves texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 10-15 seconds per cookie, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm a non-stick pan over low heat and place cookies inside for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.

How do I achieve thick cookies?

Using cold butter and not flattening the dough balls helps maintain thickness during baking.

Can I substitute chocolate chips?

Yes! You can use dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips if you prefer different flavors.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze unbaked dough or baked cookies in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

What makes these cookies unique?

The use of cake flour gives them a desirable chewy texture that sets them apart from regular chocolate chip cookies.

Final Thoughts

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are indulgent and versatile. With their thick, gooey centers filled with chocolate chips and walnuts, they’re sure to impress. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or different types of chocolate!