When it comes to cookies, few can rival the indulgence and delight of a perfectly baked Levain cookie. Known for their thick, gooey centers and crispy edges, these cookies are the ultimate treat for any dessert lover. With a rich combination of flavors that celebrates the harmony between semisweet and milk chocolate, your taste buds are in for a joyous adventure. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe for Best Levain Cookies is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why We Love This Best Levain Cookies Recipe
The charm of Levain cookies lies not only in their size but also in their incredible texture. Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that combines a crispy exterior with a warm, soft interior filled with melty chocolate. This recipe is straightforward yet yields impressive results, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. You’ll love how the ingredients come together to create cookies that taste just like those from your favorite bakery, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Plus, who can resist the delightful aroma wafting through your home as you bake? These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a celebratory experience.
Ingredients about Best Levain Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
How to Make Best Levain Cookies Directions
- Preheat your oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Whisk the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. Whisk them together until they are well blended, ensuring an even rise during baking.
- Cream the wet ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, take your softened butter and add both the brown and granulated sugars. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, giving your cookies that perfect texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Crack the two large eggs into the butter-sugar mixture, adding them one at a time. Beat well after each addition to fully incorporate the eggs. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cookies tough.
- Fold in the chocolate chips: Gently fold in the semisweet and milk chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is crucial as it gives your cookies that indulgent, chocolatey goodness.
- Scoop the dough: Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, scoop generous portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave sufficient space between each scoop to allow for spreading while baking.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set, and the tops are slightly golden brown. They may look a bit underdone in the center, but don’t worry; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Cool down: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up while still being warm and gooey.
How to Serve Best Levain Cookies
Serving your Best Levain Cookies can be just as enjoyable as baking them. Consider displaying them on a beautiful platter or a tiered dessert stand, which adds an inviting touch to any gathering. You can serve them warm for an extra treat, allowing the chocolate to melt in your mouth with each bite. Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that never goes out of style. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating your own cookie a la mode. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying them at home, presenting your cookies in an appealing way enhances the overall experience.
Expert Tips: Best Levain Cookies
- Ingredient Temperature: Ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. Room temperature butter integrates better, creating a smooth dough that leads to that perfect cookie texture.
- Don’t Skip the Resting: If you have the time, allow your cookie dough to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and creates a more robust cookie.
- Use Quality Chocolate: The chocolate you choose can make a huge difference. Opt for high-quality semisweet and milk chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary greatly. If they’re getting too brown on the edges, take them out a minute or two earlier. They will continue to bake on the sheet.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a touch of flavor contrast.
How to Store Best Levain Cookies
To keep your Best Levain Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week, but let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long! If you want to store them for an extended period, consider freezing the cookie dough before you bake them. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the balls of dough until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Variation of Best Levain Cookies
While the classic Levain cookie is already a treat on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Nutty Levain Cookies: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough. Their crunch will complement the soft chocolate perfectly.
- Double Chocolate Levain Cookies: For chocolate lovers, swap half of the all-purpose flour for cocoa powder, and increase the chocolate chips for a full chocolate experience.
- Oatmeal Levain Cookies: Stir in one cup of old-fashioned oats for a heartier texture. Oats add a delightful chewiness that pairs well with the chocolate.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of peanut butter to each dough ball before baking for a delicious peanut butter flavor that will blow your mind.
FAQ
What makes the Best Levain cookies different from regular cookies?
Best Levain cookies are thicker and denser than typical drop cookies. They have a chewy interior and crispy edges, which sets them apart in terms of texture and taste. The addition of both semisweet and milk chocolate chips creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can mix and match chocolate chips based on your preference. Dark chocolate chips, white chocolate, or even flavored varieties like mint chocolate can add unique flavors to your cookies.
How do I ensure my cookies don’t flatten while baking?
To prevent your cookies from spreading too much, make sure your butter is softened (not melted), and consider chilling the dough before baking. Additionally, be cautious not to overmix once you’ve added the dry ingredients.
How long should I bake the cookies?
Generally, baking at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes is ideal. However, the exact time may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on them. They should be golden at the edges but slightly soft in the middle.
Can I freeze the cookies after baking?
Yes, you can freeze baked Best Levain Cookies. Simply let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months!
Indulge in the joy of baking with the Best Levain Cookies recipe. Each bite will transport you to a cookie paradise!
Best Levain Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Room temperature
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Chocolate Chips
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips High-quality recommended
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips High-quality recommended
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the semisweet and milk chocolate chips.
- Scoop generous portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scoop.
Baking
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and tops are slightly golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
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