Introduction to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
If you haven’t heard of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, you’re in for a sweet treat! These cookies are revered not only for their incredible taste but also for their impressive size and texture. With a crunchy exterior and a gooey, warm center packed with chocolate chips, these cookies have become a favorite among dessert enthusiasts everywhere.
Why are Levain Bakery cookies a must-try for young professionals?
As a young professional, life can often be hectic. Between juggling work commitments and social activities, there’s little time for self-care, much less baking. That’s where these Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies come in. They evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of childhood baking days. Imagine finishing a long day, and the first bite of a fresh-baked cookie brings a wave of comfort and joy.
These cookies’ large size and rich flavor make them perfect for sharing during office gatherings or enjoying as a well-deserved treat on a Friday evening. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make from scratch, even for those who might be new to baking. Whether you're treating yourself or bringing a batch to share with friends, these cookies are a delicious way to cultivate those little moments of happiness in your busy lifestyle.
Learn more about Levain Bakery’s origin and passion for baking here.
Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
When it comes to baking the iconic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, having the right ingredients on hand is essential for achieving that perfect taste and texture. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to whip up these delightful cookies that are sure to impress!
- 1 cup Cold Butter, cut into small cubes: Ensure your butter is cold to create that irresistible chewy texture.
- 1 cup Brown Sugar: This adds that deep, caramel-like flavor that’s a signature in Levain's cookies.
- ½ cup Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar helps with overall sweetness.
- 2 Eggs: Eggs contribute to that rich, soft interior.
- 1 ½ cups Cake Flour: Cake flour gives the cookies a tender crumb; a must for that soft bite!
- 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour: Balancing cake flour with all-purpose ensures sturdiness.
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch: This secret ingredient aids in texture.
- ¾ teaspoon Baking Soda: To achieve that perfect rise.
- ¾ teaspoon Salt: Salt enhances sweetness and flavor.
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet for traditional decadence.
- 2 cups Walnuts, roughly chopped: If you enjoy a nutty crunch, these are essential!
With this lineup, your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies will come out just as delicious as you remember or imagine! Happy baking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies at home is not only a delightful culinary adventure, but it also fills your kitchen with the enticing aroma of freshly baked cookies. Let's get started with this step-by-step guide to whipping up these delicious treats!
Gather your kitchen essentials
Before diving into the baking process, it's crucial to have all your kitchen tools and ingredients at hand. This way, you won’t find yourself scrambling for something halfway through. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A Kitchenaid mixer (or any reliable mixer)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper baking sheets
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A sturdy turner
- A good spatula set
- A cookie scoop for perfect portions
Having your gear ready means you can focus on the fun part: baking!
Cream the butter and sugars
Start by preheating your oven to 410 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large mixing bowl, combine your cold, cubed butter with both the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using your mixer, cream them together for about four minutes until the mixture is creamy and well-blended. This step is vital because it creates the light and fluffy texture that defines those iconic Levain cookies. How does the mixture look? It should be slightly lighter in color and fluffy to the touch.
Incorporate the eggs
Next, add the eggs to the buttery sugar blend, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure the eggs are incorporated fully. This is where the magic starts to happen, as the eggs help bind the mixture and add moisture.
Combine the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients in a different bowl helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the dough. Gradually add the flour mixture into your wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The batter should come together nicely without any dry flour bits.
Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips and roughly chopped walnuts. What could be better than generous chunks of chocolate melting into your warm cookies? If you want to take this recipe up a notch, try using different varieties of chocolate or even some sea salt for an extra flavor kick.
Portion the dough and prep for baking
Using your cookie scoop, portion out large balls of dough. Don’t be shy; these cookies are meant to be substantial! Aim for eight hefty cookies, placing them onto a lightly colored baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave plenty of space between each ball, as they'll expand while baking.
Bake to perfection
Place your cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown. Allow them to cool on the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting period is essential; it ensures the cookies maintain their chewy texture even while cooling.
Now, enjoy your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies! They’re perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Not sure what to pair with them? Consider a comforting glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate indulgence. Happy baking!
Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Gluten-Free Options
If you’re looking to enjoy these delicious Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies while adhering to a gluten-free diet, you’re in luck! Simply substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps replicate the texture of traditional flour. This way, you can indulge without missing out on any deliciousness!
Extra Chocolate Chunk Cookies
For chocolate lovers, why not amp up the chocolate factor? Instead of using just chocolate chips, consider adding an assortment of chocolate chunks and even some chocolate shavings. Go for a mix of semi-sweet, dark, or white chocolate for a dreamy experience. Just be mindful to adjust the ratios so that the cookies don’t become too sweet. This little twist turns your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies into an irresistible chocolate lover's dream!
Looking for more creative variations? Check out King Arthur Baking for expert insights on cookies.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
When making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, keep these essential tips in mind for the best results:
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Chill the Dough: If time allows, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes will help prevent spreading and enhance the texture.
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Use Cold Butter: The cold butter is crucial for achieving the rich, dense cookies these recipes are known for.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Watch the Oven: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies after the 9-minute mark. They should be golden brown on top yet slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect gooey consistency.
For more baking inspiration, check out the Kitchn’s guide to baking at home. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Once you've baked these Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, it's all about enjoying them! Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience:
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Warm & Gooey: Serve the cookies fresh from the oven for that irresistible melty chocolate effect. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top turns it into an indulgent dessert!
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Dunking Delight: Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative for a classic treat. The crunchiness of the walnuts adds texture that we all crave.
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Cookie Sandwiches: Get creative! Spread a layer of peanut butter or cream cheese between two cookies for a fun twist.
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Gifts from the Kitchen: Package them in a cute box or tin for a thoughtful gift that always pleases friends and family.
Experiment and find your favorite way to relish these dreamy cookies!
Time Breakdown for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Preparation Time
Getting ready to bake your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies takes about 10 minutes. From assembling your ingredients to mixing them together, this is a quick and enjoyable part of the process. You can even blast your favorite music while you prep—let’s make it fun!
Cooking Time
Baking these delectable cookies requires just 11 minutes in the oven. Keep your eye on them as they start to turn golden brown; they’ll become irresistibly gooey and delicious!
Total Time
In total, you’ll spend approximately 21 minutes whipping up these amazing cookies from start to finish. Perfect for those busy days when you crave a treat but don’t want to invest hours in the kitchen.
Now that you have your time breakdown, you're all set to bake these fantastic cookies that will certainly impress your friends and family! Need more guidance? Check out my full recipe here to ensure you don’t miss any tips for achieving cookie perfection.
Nutritional Facts for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Understanding the nutritional content of your treats can help you make informed decisions while enjoying them. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect from Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies:
Calories
Each cookie packs a punch with around 610 calories. While they are a decadent treat, balancing them with a wholesome meal can make them a delightful indulgence without the guilt.
Protein
You'll find about 7 grams of protein in each cookie. This protein boost helps satisfy your hunger and makes them a great post-workout snack to enjoy after hitting the gym.
Sodium
With approximately 350 milligrams of sodium per cookie, it's important to keep your overall daily intake in mind. Enjoy in moderation, especially if you're watching your sodium levels.
These cookies are an exceptional treat that’s worth every bite! For more detailed nutrition insights, consider checking resources like the USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive breakdowns.
FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies dough in advance. Simply scoop the dough into individual balls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them directly from the freezer into your preheated oven. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time since they are starting from frozen.
What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find that your dough is a bit too sticky, don’t fret! This can happen sometimes, especially if your kitchen is warm. Try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to scoop and handle. You can also sprinkle a bit of flour on your hands while shaping the dough to prevent sticking.
How should I store my cookies?
To keep your freshly baked Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), they can last for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just remember to let them cool completely before freezing!
Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
In summary, making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies is a delightful way to enjoy a treat that's as close to the original as you can get from home. With their soft centers and crisp edges, they are perfect for sharing—or not! Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of baking and indulge in every heavenly bite. For more delicious recipes, check out Bon Appétit or New York Times Cooking. Happy baking!
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
- 1 cup Cold Butter cut into small cubes
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup Sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 1 ½ cups Cake Flour *can substitute all-purpose flour for cake 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
- 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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