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); 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 magical about biting into a warm, gooey cookie that's bursting with rich chocolate and a hint of nutty flavor. The Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies have become a beloved indulgence for many, particularly among young professionals seeking a sweet escape from their busy lives. Did you know that 75% of millennials engage with food-related content on social media? So, why not share your own cookie-baking journey with friends and family?

Why These Cookies Are the Ultimate Treat for Young Professionals

For the bustling young professional, time is a precious commodity. These cookies are not only quick to prepare, taking just 21 minutes from start to finish, but they also yield a substantial eight extra-large cookies. Perfect for an exciting mid-week treat or a cozy weekend gathering, they strike the ideal balance between convenience and flavor. Each cookie is a warm-hearted hug, revitalizing your spirit after a long day at work.

Moreover, these cookies serve as a fantastic bonding activity. Invite your colleagues over for a baking night or whip up a batch to impress that special someone—you'll create memories that are just as sweet as the cookies themselves! With a combination of chocolate chips and walnuts, every bite offers a delightful crunch, making these Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies an irresistible indulgence.

Ready to join the cookie craze? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Essential ingredients for the perfect cookie

When it comes to crafting the ultimate Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, the right ingredients are crucial. Here’s what you need for that delicious, gooey outcome:

Cold Butter: 1 cup, cut into small cubes. Cold butter helps to maintain the cookie's texture.
Brown Sugar: 1 cup for a rich, molasses flavor.
Granulated Sugar: ½ cup to balance the brown sugar.
Eggs: 2, to bind everything together.
Cake Flour: 1 ½ cups, contributing to that soft inside.
All-Purpose Flour: 1 ½ cups for structure.
Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon, which adds a delightful softness.
Baking Soda and Salt: ¾ teaspoon of each for perfect rising and flavor.
Chocolate Chips: 2 cups—don’t skimp!
Walnuts: 2 cups, roughly chopped for that satisfying crunch.

For details on the importance of these ingredients, you can check out Serious Eats.

Optional add-ins for a personalized touch

Who doesn’t love a little customization? You can play around with some optional add-ins to make your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies even more special:

Nuts: Try hazelnuts or pecans instead of walnuts for a different flavor twist.
Chocolates: Mix in dark chocolate or peanut butter chips for depth.
Seasonal spices: A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder can elevate the flavor profile.
Flaky Sea Salt: Sprinkle on top before baking for that sweet-savory contrast.

Feel free to experiment and make this cookie your own! Wouldn't it be fun to surprise your friends during your next gathering with unique variations?

Step-by-step preparation for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Making the iconic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies is more than just a recipe—it's an experience! Follow these steps, and you’ll not only achieve those rich, gooey cookies but also enjoy each moment of the process.

Gather your equipment

To start, let’s gather all the equipment you’ll need to whip up these decadent cookies. Having everything on hand makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

KitchenAid mixer – for effortless mixing Read more.
Baking sheet – to hold your cookie creations See options.
Parchment paper – for non-stick baking Buy here.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy Grab a set.
Turner – for flipping those cookies Essential tool.
Spatula set – to mix and scrape Check this out.
Cookie scoop – for perfectly sized cookies Find one here.

Prepare the butter and sugars

Begin by preheating your oven to 410 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, combine cold cubed butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar. Use your KitchenAid mixer and cream them together for about 4 minutes. You want a creamy texture that'll provide your cookies with that signature Levain softness. Don’t rush this step; it's where the magic starts!

Incorporate the eggs

Next, add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, making sure to mix thoroughly between each addition. This not only adds moisture but also helps in building a better structure for your cookie dough. Take a moment after this step to appreciate how beautiful and fluffy the mixture has become!

Mix the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies rise perfectly in the oven.

Combine the ingredients and form the dough

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Remember, overmixing is the enemy to your cookie's final texture, so mix gently. Once combined, fold in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts—the more, the merrier!

Shape the cookies and bake

Now, here’s the fun part! Divide the dough into large balls (think golf ball size) and place them on a lightly colored baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can fit about 4 cookies on a standard sheet. Trust me, these cookies are larger than you anticipate! Bake for 9-12 minutes or until you notice a golden-brown hue on top. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes before digging in.

With these steps, you're set to enjoy warm, gooey, and delectable Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies that will undoubtedly impress your friends and family! Happy baking!

Variations on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Chocolate Chip and Sea Salt Cookies

For a delightful twist on the classic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, consider adding a touch of sea salt on top. A sprinkle just before baking enhances the flavor and contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie. This small adjustment creates a more complex taste that’ll leave your taste buds dancing. You can also experiment by adding different types of chocolate—think dark, milk, or even white chocolate chunks for a rich flavor profile.

Nut-Free Versions Using Alternative Ingredients

If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can easily swap out the walnuts in the original recipe. Try using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch. Alternatively, consider using sunflower seed butter as a base for a creamy texture that mirrors that of traditional cookies. There are so many possibilities that cater to dietary preferences, making sure everyone can enjoy these scrumptious cookies without compromise! For additional nut-substitute ideas, you can explore resources from the FDA.

Baking Notes for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

To bake Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies like a pro, texture is key! Here are some helpful tips you can follow:

Use Cold Ingredients: Start with cold butter as it helps maintain the cookie’s structure while baking. This step prevents them from spreading too much.
Don't Overmix: When combining the flours and wet ingredients, mix just until blended. Overworking the dough can lead to dense cookies.
Chill the Dough (Optional): For an extra chewy bite, consider chilling the cookie dough balls for about 30 minutes before baking.
Watch Your Bake Time: Check your cookies around the 9-minute mark. They should be golden brown on the top but still slightly underbaked in the center for that gooey texture.

By keeping these pointers in mind, you're set to enjoy cookies that rival the original! Looking for more tips? Check out this article for expert baking advice!

Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Pairing with Milk or Coffee

What better way to enjoy Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies than by pairing them with your favorite beverages? For a classic experience, a tall glass of cold milk is hard to beat. The creamy richness balances the chocolatey goodness and crunchy walnuts, making each bite feel like a warm hug.

Prefer something a bit bolder? A freshly brewed cup of coffee offers a delightful contrast. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully complements the sweetness of these cookies. Consider trying a medium roast or a mocha for a truly decadent flavor combination.

Feel adventurous? Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm cookie for an indulgent dessert! Check out recipes for homemade ice cream on Serious Eats. These suggestions not only enhance your cookie experience but also elevate your snack game.

Tips for Making Perfect Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Creating the iconic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can happen along the way. Here’s how to sidestep those bumps:

Use the Right Butter Temperature: Cold butter is essential for achieving that dense, chewy cookie texture. Avoid softening it beforehand.
Measure Flour Accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale if possible, or fluff the flour before scooping and leveling it.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining your ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
Let Them Rest: After baking, allow your cookies to rest for at least 10 minutes. This will help them firm up and enhance the flavor.

For more tips and tricks on baking, you may also want to check out King Arthur Baking's Resources. Happy baking!

Time Details for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Preparation Time

Getting started on your delicious Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together. This is the fun part where you get to unleash your inner baker!

Baking Time

Once your cookie dough is ready, simply scoop it onto your prepared baking sheet, and pop it in the oven. The baking time for these cookies is approximately 9 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them – you want that perfectly golden-brown top!

Total Time

From start to finish, including preparation and baking, you're looking at a total time of 21 minutes. Just imagine enjoying warm, gooey cookies in less than half an hour! Perfect for a quick treat or an unexpected guest. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking!

If you're looking for other fun baking adventures, take a peek at BBC Good Food for more inspiration!

Nutritional Information for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

When you're indulging in a melt-in-your-mouth cookie like the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, it's always nice to have an idea of what you’re biting into. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content:

Calories

One cookie packs about 440 calories. Perfect for a treat after a long day, but maybe consider balancing it with a healthy meal.

Protein

These cookies are not just a delightful dessert; they also offer about 6 grams of protein. Thanks to the eggs and nuts, they deliver a bit of that energy boost you might need for your daily grind.

Sugars

With approximately 28 grams of sugar per cookie, they definitely satisfy your sweet tooth! Just a little nod to moderation here—enjoy them mindfully.

Whether you're making a batch for a game night or just to satisfy your cookie cravings, these cookies offer a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients! Looking for more healthy dessert ideas? Check out these delicious options for inspiration!

FAQs about Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

What should I do if the cookies are too flat?

If your Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies turn out flat, don't worry! Here are a few tips to help you achieve that ideal height:

Chill the Dough: After mixing, let your dough sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps solidify the fat and prevents spreading during baking.
Check Your Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder or baking soda is fresh; expired leavening agents can hinder the rise.
Proper Ingredient Ratios: Make sure you’re using the correct ratios of ingredients. A little too much flour can help, but watch for overshooting!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a fantastic way to enjoy warm cookies anytime. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a tray, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To create gluten-free Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and cake flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to select one that includes xanthan gum to help mimic the texture of traditional flour, ensuring your cookies remain chewy and delicious.

Conclusion on Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

In summary, the Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their chewy centers and crisp edges, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy creating this simple yet indulgent recipe and savor every delicious bite!