Name: Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Cold Butter (cut into small cubes); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Sugar; 2 Eggs; 1 1/2 cups Cake Flour (*can substitute all-purpose flour for cake flour); 1 1/2 cups Flour; 1 teaspoon Cornstarch; 3/4 teaspoon Baking Soda; 3/4 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Chocolate Chips; 2 cups Walnuts (roughly chopped)

Introduction to Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

There's something truly magical about homemade cookies. From the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen to the sheer joy of tasting a warm cookie straight from the oven, there's no substitute for the experience of baking. Today, we're diving into the world of Levain Bakery chocolate chip crush cookies, a decadent treat that will elevate your baking game.

Why Homemade Cookies?

Have you ever wondered why baking at home evokes such happiness? For many, it's about reconnecting with simpler times, perhaps memories of cooking with family or friends. Making your own cookies allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, which is simply not an option with store-bought varieties.

Moreover, the satisfaction of crafting each step, from creaming the butter to folding in those rich chocolate chips, is immensely rewarding. And let’s face it, when you pull those cookies from the oven and share them with loved ones, you’re not just sharing a sweet treat; you’re sharing love and warmth.

If you're ready to embark on this cookie adventure, we'll guide you through every step of making Levain Bakery chocolate chip crush cookies from scratch. Trust us, these cookies might just become your new favorite recipe! For more tips on baking the perfect cookie, check out this helpful guide.

Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Essential ingredients for the perfect cookie

To whip up the most delicious Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, gathering the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s your must-have list:

Cold Butter: 1 cup, cut into small cubes for that rich flavor.
Brown Sugar: 1 cup gives moisture and a lovely caramel undertone.
Granulated Sugar: ½ cup adds sweetness and balance.
Eggs: 2 large eggs will help bind everything beautifully.
Cake Flour: 1 ½ cups for a tender crumb. You can substitute with all-purpose flour if needed!
All-Purpose Flour: 1 ½ cups for the right structure.
Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon makes the cookies extra soft.
Baking Soda: ¾ teaspoon for that perfect rise.
Salt: ¾ teaspoon to enhance flavors.
Chocolate Chips: 2 cups for the ultimate gooey goodness.
Walnuts: 2 cups, roughly chopped for added crunch.

Optional ingredients for customization

Don't hesitate to get creative! Here are some fantastic additions you might consider:

Vanilla Extract: While Levain Bakery skips it, adding 1 teaspoon can enhance the flavor.
Sea Salt Flakes: A sprinkle on top before baking brings out the sweetness.
Alternative Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or even almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
Different Chocolates: Experiment with milk or dark chocolate chips for varied flavors.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to baking the chocolate chip cookies of your dreams!

Step-by-step Preparation of Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Making Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies is not just baking; it’s an experience. Let’s dive into each step, ensuring you have the best cookies of your life.

Gather your equipment and ingredients

Before we roll up our sleeves, let’s gather everything you need. Here’s your checklist:

Kitchenaid mixer: Perfect for creaming butter and sugar.
Baking sheet: Choose a light-colored one to ensure even baking.
Parchment paper: This will keep your cookies from sticking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are key!
Turner and spatula: Handy for transferring cookies.
Cookie scoop: Get ready to form those perfect cookie dough balls.

Now for the ingredients! You’ll need:

Cold butter, brown sugar, sugar, eggs, cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, salt, chocolate chips, and walnuts. Gather these and you're all set!

Creaming the butter and sugars

Now, it’s time to bring your ingredients to life! In your mixing bowl, combine cold, cubed butter with both types of sugar. Cream them together for about four minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that famous Levain Bakery texture.

Incorporating the eggs

Next up, let’s incorporate those eggs! Add them one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps the eggs blend seamlessly into the buttery goodness. You can mix on low speed to avoid splattering. Remember, the smoother the batter, the better the final cookie!

Mixing in the dry ingredients

Grab your flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt next. Slowly add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing just until combined. It’s essential not to overmix here; you want your dough to remain soft and tender, yielding that iconic, chewy texture.

Adding chocolate chips and walnuts

Now for the fun part—adding the chocolate chips and walnuts! Fold them into your dough carefully with a spatula. You want them evenly distributed throughout your batter to ensure every bite is heavenly. Feel free to sneak a few chocolate chips—I won’t tell!

Forming the cookie dough balls

Time to shape your dough! Scoop out large mounds—about ¼ cup each—to form those signature thick cookies. Remember, they spread less than a typical cookie, so leave plenty of space between them on the baking sheet. Ideally, you should place four cookies per sheet, giving them room to rise.

Baking the cookies to perfection

Preheat your oven to a sizzling 410 degrees F. Slide your cookies in and bake them for 9 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want a golden brown top that beckons you to dig in. Let them rest for at least 10 minutes after baking—this helps them set up just right. Trust me; the wait will be worth it!

Enjoy the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies as a delightful treat or share them with friends; either way, they’re bound to be a hit!

Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you're a fan of the classic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, why not mix things up with a rich peanut butter twist? Simply substitute half of the butter with creamy peanut butter for a deliciously nutty flavor. The combination of the chocolate chips and peanut butter creates a delightful contrast that will have you going back for seconds (or thirds!). Pair these with a glass of milk for a nostalgic treat, and feel free to experiment by adding chopped peanuts for extra crunch.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Another fantastic variation is the oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. By adding 1 to 1.5 cups of old-fashioned oats to the dough, you’ll achieve a hearty texture and a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. This tweak not only enhances the taste but also packs in some fiber. You can also throw in some raisins or nuts, making these cookies a more wholesome snack option. They’re perfect for a midday pick-me-up or a cozy evening treat while curling up with a good book.

Feel free to explore these variations and find your new favorite version of the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

Getting that iconic chewy yet crispy texture for your Levain Bakery chocolate chip crush cookies is key! Here’s how to nail it:

Use Cold Butter: This helps maintain the shape during baking, giving you those thick, delicious cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When you combine the flour and eggs, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Underbake Slightly: For a gooey center, aim for golden edges with a still-soft middle.

Notes on Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some easy swaps:

Cake Flour: All-purpose flour works well if you can’t find cake flour.
Nuts: Swap out walnuts for pecans or leave them out for a nut-free option.
Add-Ons: Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an elevated flavor.

Feel free to adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences! Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Perfect Pairings with Milk or Alternative Drinks

What better way to enjoy Levain Bakery chocolate chip crush cookies than with a refreshing glass of milk? You can go classic with whole or skim milk, or switch it up with almond, oat, or soy milk. Each option adds its unique twist, enhancing the rich flavors of the cookies. If you love a twist, try pairing them with a light coffee or espresso to cut through the sweetness!

Creative Ways to Serve Cookies at Gatherings

Elevate your next gathering by serving your Levain Bakery chocolate chip crush cookies in style! Consider:

Cookie Stack: Create a towering cookie stack for a fun centerpiece.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use your cookies to make delicious ice cream sandwiches; it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Party Favors: Wrap cookies in cute bags tied with twine for guests to take home.

These ideas will surely delight your friends and make for a memorable occasion! For more inspiration on serving ideas, check out Food Network.

Time Breakdown for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

When you're ready to tackle these Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, timing is everything! Here’s a quick overview to help you plan your baking session.

Preparation Time

Getting started only takes about 10 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing them together. Believe me, the smell of creaming that butter and sugar will be worth every second!

Baking Time

Once you've shaped your dough into large balls, pop them in the oven for roughly 11 minutes. You’ll want to keep a close eye on them, as every oven is unique, and that coveted golden-brown color is what you’re aiming for!

Total Time

In just 21 minutes, you’ll have fresh, warm cookies straight from the oven. They'll be the perfect treat to share with friends or indulge in all by yourself. Just don’t forget to let them rest for a few moments to set and enhance that chewy texture.

Remember, the joy of baking is not just about the cookies, but also the delicious anticipation before they come out of the oven! If you're curious about substitutes or methods, check out this handy guide for all the nuances of cookie baking. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

When indulging in Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, understanding their nutritional profile can be just as delightful as enjoying each bite! Here’s a quick breakdown to help you savor the experience guilt-free.

Calories

Each cookie packs approximately 400-450 calories. Perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth without going overboard!

Protein

You’ll find around 6 grams of protein per cookie, courtesy of the eggs and nuts. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also give you a little energy boost, too.

Sugar Content

These cookies contain about 30 grams of sugar each. While it’s a treat, keeping moderation in mind can make them the ideal dessert without the sugar crash.

If you want to munch on these delightful cookies while keeping an eye on your nutritional intake, consider sharing a cookie with a friend! Enjoy & happy baking!

FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

What makes these cookies so special?

Levain Bakery chocolate chip crush cookies are a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of cold butter, cake flour, and a generous amount of chocolate chips creates a perfect chewy yet crisp treat that’s sure to satisfy any cookie lover. Their massive size and the addition of walnuts add an artisanal touch. Each bite is like a warm hug, making them a favorite among fans of baked goods.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Freezing levain bakery chocolate chip crush cookies dough is a great way to have freshly baked cookies whenever you crave them. Simply portion the dough into balls, wrap them securely in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and freeze. When you're ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How should I store leftover cookies?

To keep your levain bakery chocolate chip crush cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay soft and delicious for about 3-5 days. If you prefer them warm, reheating them in the microwave for a few seconds can bring back that just-baked taste! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the cookies as well. Enjoy the bliss of fresh cookies anytime!

Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

If you're looking for a cookie that exudes a cozy warmth, the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are your go-to treat. With their rich flavors and irresistible texture, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Try baking them today, and enjoy a delightful experience!