Introduction to Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
If you’re in the young professional age bracket, juggling work and personal life can sometimes feel like a high-wire act. Between deadlines and social commitments, who has time for a bespoke dessert without sacrificing quality? Enter the Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a lifestyle saver!
Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try for Young Professionals
Imagine coming home after a long day, craving a warm, gooey cookie that feels like a hug in dessert form. With their signature thick and chewy texture, these cookies are a guaranteed mood booster. Studies show that indulging in a sweet treat can enhance your mood and even increase productivity. Plus, the combination of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts delivers a delightful contrast that’s truly satisfying.
Making time for joy in your busy life is essential, and baking these cookies can be a therapeutic experience. They come together quickly—just 20 minutes of prep and a short bake time—and yield a scrumptious outcome that you can enjoy alone or share with friends! Why not turn your next weekend into a mini-bake-off or gift some to a colleague?
Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these delectable cookies that capture the essence of New York City’s famed Levain Bakery right in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Essential pantry staples for the perfect cookies
To whip up Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies, you’ll want to gather a handful of essential pantry staples that ensure these cookies are nothing short of exceptional. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- COLD Unsalted Butter (1 cup): This is key for a rich flavor and the perfect texture. Make sure it's straight from the fridge!
- Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup) & Granulated White Sugar (½ cup): These sugars will create that delightful balance of sweetness and moisture.
- Large Eggs (2): For binding and adding moisture to your dough.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp, optional but recommended): While Levain doesn't use vanilla, a splash can enhance the flavor beautifully.
- Cornstarch (1 tsp) & Baking Soda (1 tsp): These leavening agents will help achieve that signature rise and chew.
- Salt (½ tsp): Always essential for enhancing flavors.
- Cake Flour (1 cup) & All-Purpose Flour (1¾ cups): This combination ensures a tender crumb while maintaining strength.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (2 cups): Opt for quality brands like Guittard for maximum indulgence.
- Chopped Walnuts (2 cups): These add a lovely crunch and nuttiness that complements the chocolate perfectly.
For tips on using high-quality ingredients in your bakes, check out sources like King Arthur Baking for expert advice. Happy baking!
Step-by-step preparation of Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Preheat the oven and prepare your baking sheets
Before diving into this cookie adventure, start by preheating your oven to 410°F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect gooey center. While the oven heats up, grab two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper or silicone liners. Lining the trays ensures that the cookies don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Creaming butter and sugars
Now, let’s get to the fun part—creaming the butter and sugars! In a stand mixer, combine your 1 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter with ¾ cup of light brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Start on low speed for about 30 seconds, then increase to medium for another 30 seconds, and finally, crank it up to high for a smooth, fluffy texture. The goal here is a light and airy mixture, which will contribute to that delightful chewiness we love in the Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies.
Incorporating eggs and vanilla
Once your butter and sugars are fluffy, it's time to incorporate the eggs. Add in two large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Don’t forget to scrape the bowl’s sides with a spatula! To elevate the flavor, include 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract—even though the original recipe skips this, it definitely adds a lovely touch to your cookies.
Mixing in dry ingredients
Now, let’s bring it all together! With the mixer on low speed, gradually add in the dry ingredients: 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of cake flour, and 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour. Mix just until everything is combined; over-mixing can lead to tougher cookies.
Folding in chocolate chips and walnuts
Next, fold in 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 cups of chopped walnuts. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough—this is where the magic happens! You may want to splurge on high-quality chocolate chips for an even richer flavor.
Chilling the dough
After mixing, refrigerate the cookie dough for about 15 minutes. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, resulting in thicker cookies with that irresistible chewy texture typical of Levain Bakery’s treats.
Shaping the cookie dough balls
Using a digital kitchen scale, measure out approximately 6-ounce portions of dough. Don’t worry about making them perfectly round—keep them rough and rustic; this contributes to their charming appearance once baked. Place four dough balls on each prepared baking sheet, spaced about 3 inches apart to prevent them from merging into one mega-cookie.
Baking and cooling the cookies
Finally, bake your cookies one sheet at a time on the middle rack for 10-13 minutes. You’ll want them to look cooked but still soft and slightly underdone in the center. Remember: the cookies will continue to cook a bit after you remove them from the oven, so it’s best to check a few minutes early. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this is crucial since the cookies are delicate right out of the oven.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have your own batch of Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies—thick, chewy, and utterly delicious! Perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!
Variations on Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Nut-free Option
If you or someone you know has a nut allergy, you can still enjoy these delicious Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies. Simply omit the walnuts and consider adding a little extra chocolate for texture and richness. Dark chocolate or even white chocolate could serve as a delightful complement. Alternatively, you can use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
Different Chocolate Types
Why stick to just semi-sweet chocolate chips? Experimenting with different types can give your cookies a whole new vibe! Try incorporating dark chocolate for a bold, rich flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter profile. You could even mix in some caramel chips or toffee bits for an unexpected twist. Don’t hesitate to go wild with chocolate combinations – the possibilities are endless!
By customizing your cookies, you can create a personal touch that makes each batch uniquely yours while still emulating those dreamy cookies from Levain Bakery.
Cooking tips and notes for Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Importance of using cold butter
Using cold unsalted butter is crucial for the perfect texture in your Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies. Cold butter allows for a thicker, chewier cookie that retains its shape while baking, creating that iconic gooey center we all adore. Not only does it help in achieving a delightful rise, but it also ensures the cookies don’t spread too much, keeping them nice and thick. If you forget to set it out beforehand, just pop it in the microwave for a few seconds, but watch it closely—you want it cold, not melted!
Why quality chocolate matters
When it comes to the chocolate chips, investing in high-quality chocolate makes all the difference. Opt for brands like Guittard or Ghirardelli, as their rich flavor and smooth melt contribute to the overall taste of your cookies. Remember, the chocolate is a star ingredient here, just like the walnuts! Your taste buds will thank you for choosing quality chocolate, elevating your cookies from good to extraordinary. For more tips on selecting quality chocolate, check out this guide from Fine Cooking that delves deeper into the topic.
Serving suggestions for Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Pairing with coffee or milk
One of the simplest pleasures of enjoying Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies is the delightful pairing with a warm cup of coffee or cold glass of milk. The rich chocolate and buttery flavor of the cookies beautifully complement the robust notes of your favorite brew or the creamy goodness of milk. Whether you prefer a strong espresso or a sweet latte, these cookies create a heavenly balance. Don’t forget to try them with a nice herbal tea for a soothing afternoon treat!
Creative dessert ideas using the cookies
Looking to elevate your dessert game? These cookies can easily take center stage in a variety of delightful creations:
- Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie Trifle: Crumble the cookies into layers with whipped cream and fresh berries for a show-stopping dessert.
- Cookies 'n' Brownies Combo: Top a warm brownie with a crumbly cookie or even chop the cookies into the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey twist.
Feel free to get creative—each biscuit is a versatile canvas ready to be transformed into something new! For more creative ideas, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Serious Eats.
Time Breakdown for Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
When you're ready to create your own batch of Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies, here's how you can break down your time efficiently:
Preparation Time
You'll need about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients, measure everything accurately, and mix your cookie dough. Take your time here; the quality of your cookies depends on getting this stage right!
Cooking Time
Baking these delightful cookies takes approximately 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—it's crucial not to over-bake! A little underdone will give you that coveted gooey center.
Total Time
In just 32 minutes, you can have fresh, bakery-style cookies at your fingertips! That’s a quick reward for a bit of patience and effort in the kitchen.
For more tips on beautifully baked cookies and best practices, check out resources like King Arthur Baking or America’s Test Kitchen. Enjoy the process—it’s not just about the cookies, but the joy of baking!
Nutritional Facts for Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Calories per Cookie
Each delightful cookie delivers approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying treat for any time of day.
Main Nutrients
These cookies provide a balanced mix of nutrients, including:
- Carbohydrates: For quick energy from sugars found in brown and granulated sugar.
- Protein: Contributions from eggs, nuts, and chocolate.
- Fats: Healthy fats from walnuts and butter.
Serving Size
The serving size is based on a single cookie, with the recipe yielding 8 large cookies. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these cookies pack a flavor punch with every bite!
If you're curious about how these cookies fit into your daily nutrition, check out this nutrition tracker to help you stay on top of your goals. Balancing indulgence with nutrition is key, and these Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies are a delicious way to find that balance!
FAQs about Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing the Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies dough is a great option for enjoying freshly baked cookies later. After shaping the dough into balls, you can flash freeze them on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once firm, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to store baked cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture. Just make sure to separate the Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies with parchment paper to avoid sticking!
How can I make these cookies softer?
If you're aiming for a softer texture, consider slightly underbaking them. Remove the cookies when they still look slightly underdone in the center; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet. Additionally, using cake flour can help create that soft, tender crumb you love in these cookies. For an added touch, try integrating a bit more butter or reducing the baking time slightly!
Conclusion on Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Final thoughts and encouragement to bake
Baking these Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies is not just about the end result; it's about the joy of creating something deliciously indulgent! I encourage you to gather your ingredients, turn up your favorite playlist, and dive into this baking adventure. You won’t regret it! Enjoy every gooey, chocolatey bite!
Authentic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
Equipment
- Digital kitchen scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup COLD unsalted butter cut into small cubes
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional but recommended (Levain doesn't use vanilla surprisingly!)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips such as Guittard or Ghirardelli
- 2 cups chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 410° degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners; set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and both sugars with the paddle attachment on low speed for 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and beat for another 30 seconds, then increase to high speed for a last 30 seconds. Mixture should be light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a spatula as needed, followed by the vanilla.
- Add in the cornstarch, baking soda, salt, cake flour and all-purpose flour and mix on low speed until just incorporated. Add in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts and mix until just combined. Refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes.
- Using a digital kitchen scale for accuracy, measure out a rough 6 ounce ball of dough, shaping it roughly and place on the baking sheet. You do not want the dough ball to be smooth and compacted, just barely formed into a rough ball shape. Stagger 3 more dough balls on one baking sheet, spacing about 3" apart. (There should be 4 dough balls on one baking sheet).
- Bake for 10-13 minutes, one sheet at a time in the middle rack of the oven. Cookies should look cooked and be dry and have a duller finish on the outside while still looking soft and underdone on the inside. Start checking at the 10-minute mark as it is important not to over-bake these. Remember, cookies will continue to finish cooking on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet, about 30 minutes, before moving to a wire rack or storing. Cookies are very delicate just after baking so it is imperative they are not disturbed.
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