Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are a must-try for any cookie lover. Known for their extra-large size and thick, gooey centers, these cookies elevate the classic chocolate chip cookie to a new level of indulgence. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying after dinner, or simply treating yourself, these cookies will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra Large Size: These cookies are made to satisfy your sweet tooth with their generous portions.
• Gooey Texture: The soft and chewy inside contrasts beautifully with the crispy edges.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Versatile Flavor: Loaded with chocolate chips and walnuts, they can be customized with your favorite nuts or add-ins.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference when baking. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort by easily mixing up the dough until it’s perfectly creamy.
• Baking sheets: Using multiple sheets allows you to bake several batches of cookies at once without delay.
• Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and ensures even baking without the need for greasing pans.

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 Cookie 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
• 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 as you prepare your cookie dough.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Add Eggs

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

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the 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:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Mix in the chocolate chips and walnuts:
1. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough Balls

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

Step 8: Preheat Your Oven

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

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Arrange chilled cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheets:
1. Space them about 3 inches apart—about four per sheet.
2. Bake for 10-11 minutes or until golden brown around edges but slightly underbaked in the middle.

Step 10: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow baked cookies to rest on the sheet for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack or enjoying them warm!

How to Serve Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven. They offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that can be enhanced with a few serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, cold milk complements the rich chocolate chips beautifully.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Place a warm cookie on top of a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add an extra layer of sweetness by drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies just before serving.

Sprinkled with Sea Salt

• A pinch of flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a gourmet touch.

Served at Parties

• These cookies are perfect for gatherings; serve them on a platter for guests to enjoy.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies alongside brownies, cupcakes, or fruit tarts for a varied dessert experience.

How to Perfect Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, follow these tips closely.

• Use Cold Butter: Cold butter helps maintain the dough’s structure, ensuring thick cookies that stay chewy inside.
• Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes will prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour to avoid tough cookies. Overworking the dough can lead to gluten development.
• Underbake Slightly: For gooey centers, take the cookies out when they are golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or fluff up the flour before scooping to avoid packing it down, which can lead to dry cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies can create a delightful dessert spread. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing contrast to indulgent cookies. Combine seasonal fruits for added flavor.
2. Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or camembert to balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that complements the cookie’s texture.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station with fruits and marshmallows for dipping alongside your cookies.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor while providing a delightful contrast in temperature.
6. Nut Mix: Offer assorted nuts as a crunchy side that adds texture and balances sweetness with salty flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect your cookie outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using warm ingredients – Make sure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing. This helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Skipping chilling time – Chilling the dough is crucial for thick cookies. Don’t skip this step; it enhances flavor and texture.
• Overbaking cookies – Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove cookies from the oven when they are slightly underbaked for that gooey center.
• Neglecting to space cookies properly – Ensure there’s ample space between cookie dough balls on the baking sheet. This prevents them from merging.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I ensure my Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are thick?

Using cold butter and chilling the dough helps maintain thickness during baking.

Can I substitute nuts in this recipe?

Yes! You can replace walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely if you prefer nut-free cookies.

What type of chocolate is best for these cookies?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best, but you can also use dark or milk chocolate depending on your taste.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature or longer if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Copycat Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only deliciously indulgent but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding different types of chocolate or nuts. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich flavors and soft textures that make these cookies truly special!