Why make this recipe
Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies are a favorite dessert for many people. The rich taste of chocolate combined with the soft, chewy texture of the cookie creates a delightful treat. These cookies are perfect for anyone who loves a classic dessert. They work well for special occasions, casual gatherings, or simply to enjoy at home. Baking cookies can also be a fun activity for families. Kids can help mix the dough and drop spoonfuls onto the baking sheet. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but also satisfying for those who are more experienced.
Making these cookies at home allows you to use quality ingredients. You can control the sweetness and choose your favorite type of chocolate chips. Plus, the smell of cookies baking in the oven can make your home feel warm and inviting. It’s an experience that brings people together, whether it’s sharing cookies with family or enjoying them with friends over coffee.
Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a big, thick cookie loaded with chocolate. The cookie is soft in the middle with a slightly crisp edge. This combination makes them irresistible, and you’ll want to have some ready for when cravings hit! They are not just cookies; they are a delightful experience.
How to make Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making these cookies is simple, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. With just a few basic steps, you can create delicious cookies that will impress everyone. The process allows you to enjoy fresh cookies baked right at home.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: This ingredient adds richness and flavor to the cookies. Softened butter makes it easier to cream together with sugar.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This sugar enhances the sweetness and helps create a tender cookie.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor, which contrasts nicely with the chocolate.
- 1 large egg: Eggs act as a binding agent, helping all the ingredients mix together smoothly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds a wonderful, warm flavor that complements the chocolate.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Flour is the main structure of the cookie. It gives it body and sets the foundation.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This is a leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly while baking.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the cookie and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: These are the stars of the recipe! They bring sweetness and a melty texture to the cookies.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C): This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and become golden.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth: Use a hand mixer or a spatula to mix until the mixture is fluffy. This step is important as it helps incorporate air into the dough.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fluffy: Mix well until the egg and vanilla are completely blended into the butter and sugar mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt: Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined: Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps in the dough.
Fold in the chocolate chips: This step is where you can be generous with your chocolate. Make sure the chips are evenly dispersed throughout the dough.
Using a cookie scoop, drop hefty spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper: Leave space between each dollop of dough to allow the cookies to spread while baking.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden: Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary. The centers might look soft, but they will firm up as they cool. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to serve Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are great fresh from the oven, but they also taste amazing when served warm. To serve, place the cookies on a beautiful plate and enjoy them with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage. For a fun twist, you might serve them with a scoop of ice cream on top.
You can also sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled cookies for a touch of elegance. Another option is to drizzle melted chocolate on top for a gourmet look. Cookies can be packed into boxes if you’re giving them as gifts. They make excellent treats for birthdays, holidays, or just because.
How to store Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies
To store these cookies, allow them to cool completely after baking. Once they are cool, you can place them in an airtight container. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Stored properly, these cookies can last for about a week at room temperature.
If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and keep them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take out as many as you want and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them up in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Tips to make Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies
Use room temperature ingredients: Room-temperature butter and eggs blend better than cold ones. This helps the cookie dough become smooth.
Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing once the flour is incorporated, even if the dough is a little lumpy.
Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and can lead to thicker cookies.
Experiment with different chocolate: Try using dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. Mixing different types will create an interesting flavor profile.
Add nuts: If you like nuts, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans before baking. They add a nice crunch and complement the chocolate.
Variation
You can customize Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies in many different ways. Here are a few ideas you can try:
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies: Mix in a cup of old-fashioned oats for a chewy texture.
Nut Butter: Substitute a part of the butter with peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty flavor.
Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top just before baking for a delicious salty-sweet combination.
Stuffed Cookies: For a fun surprise, stuff the cookies with a piece of chocolate or caramel in the center before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, roll it into balls, and refrigerate or freeze them. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if the dough is cold.
3. What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, you may need to chill your dough before baking next time. The butter could be too soft or melted, so ensure it’s just softened.
Enjoy baking your Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies! They are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Levain Inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop hefty spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.