Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
Welcome to the world of chocolate chip cookies! In this article, we’re diving into the iconic Chocolate Chip Cookies from Levain Bakery in NYC. Get ready to embark on a delectable journey as we explore the secrets behind these heavenly treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about why these cookies are so beloved. One bite into a Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookie, and you’ll understand why they have a cult following. These cookies are unlike any other, offering a perfect balance between crispy edges and a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth center. They are truly a cookie lover’s dream come true.
Not only are these cookies incredibly delicious, but they are also incredibly easy to make at home. With a handful of simple ingredients and a few expert tips, you can recreate the magic of Levain Bakery right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the world of cookies, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your taste buds.
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional:
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup raisins
Feel free to customize your cookies by adding walnuts or raisins for an extra crunch or burst of sweetness. If you have any dietary restrictions, you can also substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these irresistible cookies:
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips (and any optional ingredients like walnuts or raisins).
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, portion the dough into large golf ball-sized rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers will be slightly underbaked, giving the cookies their signature gooey texture.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tip: For extra thick cookies, you can freeze the portioned dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and creates an even more indulgent texture.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfect every time:
– Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create the ideal cookie texture.
– Cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a lighter cookie.
– Fold in the chocolate chips gently to avoid overmixing. This ensures the chips are evenly distributed without deflating the dough.
– Don’t skip the chilling step. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to develop and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
– Remove the cookies from the oven while the centers are still slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool, resulting in that perfect gooey center.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are undeniably delicious, feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to suit your preferences:
– Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for a sweet and salty twist.
– Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate, dark chocolate, or a combination of different types of chocolate.
– Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier cookie.
– Use different mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even crushed candies for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have a batch of warm, freshly baked Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies, here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience:
– Enjoy the cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic and comforting combination.
– Serve the cookies alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
– Sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a delightful ice cream sandwich treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply portion the dough and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual.
Q: How should I store the baked cookies?
A: If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Q: Why are my cookies spreading too much?
A: If your cookies are spreading too much during baking, it could be due to several factors. Make sure your butter is not too soft or melted, as this can cause the cookies to spread. Additionally, chilling the dough for the recommended time helps prevent excessive spreading.
Final Thoughts
Indulging in a Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookie is truly a delightful experience. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of NYC’s most famous cookies into your own home. Whether you’re baking these cookies for yourself, sharing them with loved ones, or hosting a cookie swap, they are sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your apron on, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your kitchen. It’s time to create your own batch of Levain Bakery-worthy Chocolate Chip Cookies and savor every delicious bite. Happy baking!
Chocolate Chip Cookies Levain Bakery NYC
Delve into the world of Levain Bakery’s iconic Chocolate Chip Cookies with this delightful recipe. These cookies offer a perfect balance between crispy edges and a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth center, making them a cookie lover’s dream come true. Recreate the magic of Levain Bakery in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup raisins (optional)
Directions
-
In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
-
Gently fold in the chocolate chips (and any optional ingredients like walnuts or raisins).
-
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, portion the dough into large golf ball-sized rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers will be slightly underbaked, giving the cookies their signature gooey texture.
-
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.