The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through the air, pulling me into the kitchen like a sweet siren song. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on the iconic Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies—a delightfully chewy treat with crispy edges and a gooey center that promises to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Not only are these cookies indulgent and rich, but they also offer a homemade warmth that makes any gathering special. Their gorgeous texture creates an experience that transcends ordinary cookies, inviting everyone to savor each heavenly bite. Are you ready to embark on a baking adventure that’ll transform your cookie game forever? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Indulgence at its finest: Enjoy the rich, gooey center that perfectly contrasts with the crisp exterior.
Homemade warmth: The joy of baking these cookies fills your kitchen with comforting aromas.
Versatile flavor: Customize them with different chocolate varieties or a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet twist.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, these cookies will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Time-saving chill: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever the craving hits. Transform your baking routine with these delightful treats that are sure to impress! Want more cookie inspirations? Check out my Chocolate Blossom Cookies or the Raspberry Cookies Sweet for variations that will keep your baking exciting!
Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for your cookies; consider using gluten-free flour for a delicious alternative.
• Brown Sugar (packed) – Adds sweetness and moisture, essential for the caramel-like flavor; dark brown sugar deepens this flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (cold) – Ensures a rich flavor and proper texture; cold butter is key to maintaining your dough structure.
• Large Egg (cold) – Acts as a binder, ensuring all ingredients come together; use a cold egg for the best results.
• Cornstarch – Creates a tenderness and contributes to the cakey texture; can be replaced with extra flour if needed.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise; always check to ensure it’s fresh for maximum effectiveness.
• Salt (pinch) – Elevates the overall sweetness of the cookies; omit if using salted butter to avoid overpowering.
• Chocolate Chunks – Indulge in decadent chocolate flavor; semi-sweet or dark chocolate provides richness.
• Chopped Walnuts – Offers a delightful crunch; optional for those with nut allergies—feel free to swap them for pecans or omit altogether.
For Serving
• Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top before baking enhances the sweet-and-salty flavor profile; an optional gourmet touch for your Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ultimate Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, combine the cold, cubed unsalted butter and packed brown sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring to scrape down the bowl halfway through to incorporate any sugar bits that may cling to the sides. The fluffy texture is essential for those delicious, gooey Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Step 2: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add one cold large egg and a splash of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until everything is well blended, ensuring the egg is fully incorporated into the mixture to achieve a smooth, creamy base. This step adds moisture and helps bind the dough beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This combination not only adds structure to your cookies but also achieves that delicate chewiness you’ve been craving. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed, just until the flour disappears and the dough begins to form, taking care not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in Add-ins
With a spatula, gently fold in generous chunks of chocolate and optional chopped walnuts into the dough. Be cautious to mix just enough to distribute the chocolate evenly without overworking the dough, as this can lead to less desirable cookie texture. Your Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies will be wonderfully rich with chocolatey goodness!
Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for 24 to 72 hours. This chilling step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, which produces the perfectly chewy centers. Patience will reward you with the best cookies!
Step 6: Preheat Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper, which will help prevent sticking and promote even baking. This high temperature is key to achieving that delightful contrast between a crisp exterior and a gooey interior in your Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Scoop about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of dough for each cookie and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between them to allow for spreading. The size of the dough will create those glorious, thick cookies everyone loves!
Step 8: Bake
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers remain soft and underbaked. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as baking times may vary. After baking, gently bang the baking sheet on the counter to encourage the perfect texture.
Step 9: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 to 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps them set a bit more while ensuring those warm, gooey centers remain intact. Your Ultimate Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are now ready to indulge!
How to Store and Freeze Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and that inviting gooeyness.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week; just remember to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze freshly baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a cozy treat.
Reheating: To enjoy that freshly-baked taste, reheat chilled or frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chill the Dough: Allow your dough to chill for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial for achieving the desired gooey texture and flavor depth in your Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies by developing gluten, which is a common mistake in cookie baking to avoid.
Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor. Opt for premium chocolate chunks for richer, more decadent Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; all ovens are different. If they look slightly underbaked in the center after 12 minutes, pull them out for that perfect gooey finish!
Experiment with Add-ins: Try different mix-ins like sea salt, cocoa nibs, or dried fruit to personalize your Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies and elevate their flavors even further.
What to Serve with Ultimate Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies
Experience a delightful culinary moment as you create the perfect pairing for these heavenly cookies!
Cold Glass of Milk: Nothing beats the classic! This refreshing drink enhances the rich chocolate flavors whilst balancing the sweetness with creamy goodness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream brings a heavenly contrast to the warm, gooey cookies, making each bite an indulgent experience.
Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy berries add a pop of tartness that cuts through the richness, awakening your taste buds and refreshing your palate.
Hot Chocolate: For a cozy winter treat, pair these cookies with a steaming cup of hot chocolate, amplifying the chocolate experience to pure bliss!
Coffee or Espresso: The deep flavors of brewed coffee complement the sweet, buttery notes of the cookies, adding an adult touch that will please any coffee lover.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some salted caramel over your cookie creates an indulgent gourmet treat, heightening the flavors and adding a decadent touch.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream topped with a sprinkle of cocoa powder transforms your cookie experience into a luscious dessert.
Chocolate Fudge Brownies: If you’re looking for dessert decadence, serving alongside fudgy brownies creates an irresistible chocolate lover’s feast worth sharing!
Glass of Red Wine: For an adult gathering, a glass of fruity red wine can elevate your cookie experience, pairing beautifully with the rich chocolate notes.
Make Ahead Options
These decadent Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful taste with less effort during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 72 hours; simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can shape the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven, arrange the frozen dough on a baking sheet, and bake for a couple of extra minutes. This approach ensures that your cookies come out just as delicious and gooey as if they were freshly made, making them an ideal indulgence that saves you time!
Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with delightful twists that elevate their indulgence!
Dairy-Free: Swap out regular butter for vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate chunks. Enjoy the same rich flavor without dairy!
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or substitute with pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture that keeps the cookie nut-free, perfect for school lunches.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder for a surprising touch of heat that beautifully contrasts the sweet chocolate.
Caramel Surprise: Incorporate bits of caramel into the dough for a gooey interior that oozes with sweet goodness. It adds a whole new level of decadence!
Flavored Twists: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or peppermint for unique cookie variations that will surely delight your taste buds. A splash can transform these cookies into festive treats!
Coconut Cravings: Fold in shredded coconut for a chewy texture that brings hints of tropical flavor to your cookies. Each bite will transport you to a sunny beach!
Chocolate Trio: Use a mix of chocolate chips—dark, milk, and white chocolate—creating a luxurious chocolate explosion in each bite. Chocolate lovers will rejoice!
Matcha Infusion: Incorporate a teaspoon of matcha powder into the dry ingredients for a beautiful green hue and earthy flavor. This twist will have everyone curious about what makes these cookies so special!
These variations will keep your baking adventures exciting! You can also explore more scrumptious options by trying out my Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl or White Chocolate Toffee recipes. Happy baking!
Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best type of chocolate to use for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I recommend using high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks. They melt beautifully and create decadent pockets of gooey chocolate in your Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies. If you’re a milk chocolate lover, feel free to substitute or mix in some milk chocolate chunks for a sweeter cookie experience.
How should I store my baked cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and gooey, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Definitely! To freeze your cookie dough, scoop the dough into individual portions and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookie balls to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very common! Overmixing the dough can cause excess spreading, so be sure to mix just until the flour is incorporated. Additionally, chilling the dough for at least 24 hours helps maintain the shape while baking. If your cookies do flatten out, you can try baking them at a slightly higher temperature for the last few minutes to help them regain some structure.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can! I often substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and it works well for these cookies. Just be sure to check that the flour you choose is specifically designed for baking, as this ensures the best texture and taste for your Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Gooey Bakery Chocolate Chip Cookies for Ultimate Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine the cold, cubed unsalted butter and packed brown sugar. Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the bowl halfway through.
- Add one cold large egg and a splash of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until fully blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed.
- Gently fold in chocolate chunks and chopped walnuts into the dough with a spatula.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 24 to 72 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of dough for each cookie and roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheets with enough space for spreading.
- Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers remain soft. Bang the baking sheet on the counter after baking.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.