Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their extra-large size and gooey texture, they take the classic chocolate chip cookie to new heights. Loaded with rich chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts, these cookies will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra Large Size – These cookies are supersized, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own.
• Gooey Center – The soft inside contrasts beautifully with the crispy edges, giving you the ultimate cookie experience.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time, even if you’re a beginner.
• Versatile Flavor – Customize by adding different nuts or using dark chocolate chips to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, gifts, or just a cozy night at home with a glass of milk.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Preparing ahead will ensure that your baking goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – This tool efficiently mixes ingredients to achieve a light and creamy texture for the dough.
• Parchment paper – Using this prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless after baking.
• Baking sheets – Choosing high-quality sheets ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly golden cookies.

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 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

For the 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: Line the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed until light and creamy (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape the side of the bowl as needed to incorporate all ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips and roughly chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough Balls

Divide the dough into 9 equal portions (about 6 ounces each). Shape each portion into a rough ball without flattening them. Place onto lined baking sheets and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line three large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place chilled cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets spacing about 3 inches apart (around four per sheet).

Step 10: Check for Doneness

Bake for 10–11 minutes or until cookies are golden brown around the edges but still slightly underbaked in the center.

Step 11: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow baked cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 10–15 minutes before enjoying.

How to Serve Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging on your own, here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance their deliciousness.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the rich chocolate flavors perfectly.

Warmed Up

• Heat the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring out their gooey center. This makes them even more indulgent and satisfying.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor, and enjoy a delicious treat that combines warm cookies with cold ice cream.

Dessert Platter

• Serve these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies or fruit tarts. This makes for an impressive dessert table at any gathering.

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience that enhances your beverage break.

Gift Them

• Package these cookies in a decorative box as a sweet gift for friends and family. A homemade treat always brings joy!

How to Perfect Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

Creating the ultimate Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies requires a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, resulting in that thick texture you crave.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and fresh walnuts for the best flavor. These ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final product.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the flour too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the middle for that perfect gooey texture.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add different nuts or even dried fruit if you want to switch up flavors while keeping the essence of these cookies intact.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

While these Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience even further. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing side that introduces brightness and complements the rich chocolate flavor.
3. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with fresh fruits and granola as a healthy yet indulgent option.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
5. Coffee Affogato: Pour hot espresso over vanilla ice cream topped with cookie crumbles for a delightful twist.
6. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy and healthy option that provides texture contrast alongside your soft cookie.
7. Milkshake: Blend up a creamy milkshake using vanilla ice cream and milk, creating a perfect drinkable dessert pairing.
8. Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses alongside your cookies for an interesting sweet-and-savory combination, surprising guests with unique flavors!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some to watch for:

• Using room temperature butter: Cold butter helps create the thick and chewy texture that defines these cookies. Always use cold, cubed butter for the best results.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial. It allows the flavors to meld and helps maintain the cookie’s structure while baking. Never skip this step!
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can result in tough cookies. Mix until ingredients are just combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Flour should be measured correctly, preferably by weight. Scoop it straight from the bag and level off with a knife; this prevents dry cookies.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F. Baking at a lower temperature may lead to flat cookies instead of thick ones.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes for gentle warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Can I substitute different nuts in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts if you prefer.

How can I make these cookies even more chocolatey?

You can add chocolate chunks or use a mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips for added flavor.

What if I don’t have cake flour?

You can make a substitute by combining all-purpose flour with cornstarch (1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons cornstarch).

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for golden brown edges while the center remains slightly underbaked; they will continue cooking as they cool.

Can I make these cookies smaller?

Absolutely! You can reduce the portion size, but adjust baking time accordingly, usually around 8-10 minutes for smaller cookies.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This could happen if your dough was too warm before baking or if there was too little flour used. Ensure proper chilling and accurate measurements next time!

Final Thoughts

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Their thick, gooey centers and rich chocolate flavor make them stand out from regular cookies. Feel free to customize them with your favorite nuts or chocolates, ensuring that every batch is uniquely yours!