Levain Style Chocolate Chip Cookie That Will Melt Your Heart

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Levain Style chocolate chip cookies! They are the kind of cookies that make your heart sing and your taste buds dance. Thick, chewy, and loaded with chocolate, they’re simply irresistible! I still remember the first time I had one—my friend brought a batch over to movie night, and I was hooked after just one bite. The outside was perfectly golden while the inside was soft and gooey, oozing chocolate in the most delightful way. I couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so extraordinary!

Now, I whip up these cookies whenever I need a sweet treat to share or just a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. The smell of butter and sugar mixing in my kitchen brings back those warm memories every time. Plus, they’re so quick to make, it’s like a hug in cookie form! So grab your baking gear, and let’s dive into making the best Levain Style chocolate chip cookies you’ll ever taste. Trust me, your friends and family will thank you!

Ingredients List

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

How to Prepare Levain Style Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Alright, let’s get started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). I can’t stress enough how important this step is! Preheating ensures your cookies bake evenly and get that perfect golden brown exterior. If you skip this part, you might end up with cookies that are too soft or unevenly baked. So, while your oven warms up, you can gather the rest of your ingredients and tools. It’s like the calm before the delicious storm!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This is where the magic begins! Whisking these dry ingredients together helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt, ensuring that every bite of your cookie is perfectly flavored. Plus, it adds a little air into the mix, which is always a good thing for texture!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, it’s time to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. I like to use a hand mixer for this part, but you can totally do it by hand if you’re feeling strong! Beat the mixture until it’s creamy and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You want it to look light and pale, almost like whipped honey. This step is crucial because it adds air to the dough, which gives our cookies that dreamy, chewy texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next up, add in those 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat everything together until it’s well combined. This is where the magic really happens! The eggs will add moisture and richness to your cookie dough, and the vanilla brings that warm, sweet aroma we all love. Just make sure everything is mixed until you can’t see any streaks of egg or butter!

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, and mix until just combined. I like to do this in three parts. Start by adding about a third of the flour mixture, then mix until it’s incorporated before adding the next third. This helps prevent overmixing, which can make your cookies tough. You want a soft, thick dough that’s just coming together.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Now for the best part—fold in those 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips! I like to use a spatula for this step so I can gently incorporate them without breaking them up too much. You want those gooey chocolate chunks in every bite, so make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough!

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a large spoon, drop generous scoops of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave plenty of space between each scoop—about 2-3 inches—because these cookies are going to spread as they bake. Trust me, you want them to have room to grow into those thick, luscious cookies we all crave!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Finally, pop those babies in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown around the edges but still look a little soft in the center. Don’t worry if they seem underbaked; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet once you take them out. Let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Get ready for the most amazing chocolate chip cookies ever!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Thick and Chewy: These cookies are everything you want in a chocolate chip cookie—thick, chewy, and downright delicious! Each bite is a delightful experience.
• Packed with Chocolate: With a generous 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips, every cookie is bursting with rich, melty chocolate goodness. You won’t be left wanting!
• Quick to Make: You can whip up a batch of these cookies in just about 35 minutes! They’re perfect for those moments when you need a sweet treat in a hurry.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether it’s a gathering or a simple get-together, they won’t last long on the plate!

Tips for Success

Okay, let’s talk about how to make sure your Levain Style chocolate chip cookies turn out absolutely perfect every single time! Trust me, these little tips can elevate your cookie game to a whole new level.

Chill the Dough

One of my top tips is to chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step is crucial! Chilling helps the flavors meld together and gives the cookies that nice, thick texture we love. Plus, it prevents them from spreading too much in the oven, which means they’ll stay nice and chewy. Just pop the bowl in the fridge while your oven preheats, and you’ll be set!

Use Quality Ingredients

When it comes to baking, the quality of your ingredients really matters. I always opt for real unsalted butter and good-quality chocolate chips. It may seem like a small detail, but using high-quality ingredients can take your cookies from good to *mind-blowingly* delicious! You’ll taste the difference, I promise.

Don’t Overmix

Another tip for success is to avoid overmixing your dough once you add the dry ingredients. You want just enough mixing to combine everything without developing too much gluten, which could lead to tough cookies. It’s okay if there are a few flour streaks left; just fold gently until everything is incorporated.

Watch the Baking Time

Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake! Ovens can vary, so start checking them around the 12-minute mark. You’re looking for a golden brown edge, with the center still slightly soft. They’ll continue to cook a bit once you take them out, so don’t be tempted to leave them in for too long!

Storage Tips

Once your cookies are baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last for about a week—if they last that long! I also love to freeze any extras. Just pop them in a freezer bag, and they’ll be ready whenever you need a chocolate fix. Just give them a quick reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, and you’ll have warm, gooey cookies at your fingertips!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to baking the most incredible Levain Style chocolate chip cookies ever. Happy baking!

Variations

Now, let’s have some fun with your Levain Style chocolate chip cookies! The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to your taste or pantry staples. Here are some delicious variations to mix things up:

Nutty Delight

If you’re a fan of a little crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts! Walnuts or pecans are my go-to choices. Just fold in about 1 cup of roughly chopped nuts along with the chocolate chips. They add a lovely texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate!

Dark Chocolate Goodness

Switch things up by using dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet. Dark chocolate brings a richer, more intense flavor that chocolate lovers will absolutely adore. You can even mix in a combination of dark and milk chocolate chips for a delightful contrast!

Peanut Butter Swirl

For a fun twist, try adding peanut butter! You can either swirl in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter into the dough before baking or replace some of the butter with peanut butter for a nutty flavor throughout. Imagine that melty chocolate mixed with peanut butter goodness—yum!

Oreo Surprise

Feeling adventurous? Chop up some Oreos and fold them into the dough with the chocolate chips. The crunchy, creamy bits of Oreo take these cookies to a whole new level of indulgence. Trust me, this is a game changer!

Holiday Spice

Want to add a seasonal touch? Sprinkle in some cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dry ingredients—about 1 teaspoon should do the trick! It gives your cookies a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall or winter gatherings.

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get creative and play around with flavors and textures until you find your ultimate cookie combination. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious creations!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional powerhouse that is our Levain Style chocolate chip cookie! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But here’s a general breakdown per cookie:

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 20g

These cookies pack a delightful punch of flavor and happiness, making them a special treat worth savoring! Just remember, moderation is key—especially when it comes to something so delicious. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share with family and friends!

FAQ Section

Can I store Levain Style chocolate chip cookies, and how long will they last?

Absolutely! Once your cookies are baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week, but let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long! If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Just pop them in a freezer bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, and you’ll have warm, gooey goodness!

Can I substitute the chocolate chips with something else?

For sure! If you’re not a big fan of chocolate chips, feel free to get creative! You can substitute them with nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruit like raisins or cranberries. If you want to stick with the chocolate theme, try using dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so go ahead and make it your own!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?

If you find that your cookies are spreading too much, don’t worry! It can happen for a few reasons. First, make sure your butter is softened but not overly melted. If it’s too warm, that can cause spreading. Another tip is to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better. If you’re still having trouble, try adding a bit more flour—just a tablespoon at a time—until the dough feels right!

Can I use a stand mixer instead of a hand mixer?

Absolutely! A stand mixer works perfectly for this recipe. Just use the paddle attachment to cream the butter and sugars, and it’ll do all the hard work for you. Just be careful not to overmix once you add the flour—mix until just combined, and you’ll be golden!

What if I want to make these cookies gluten-free?

Great question! You can definitely make gluten-free Levain Style chocolate chip cookies. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free flour blend. I recommend one that includes xanthan gum, as it helps mimic the texture of regular flour. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious!

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