Name: Levain Bakery Style Cookies: 8 Steps to Pure Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes); 1 cup light brown sugar (packed); ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cake flour; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate chunks

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Levain Bakery Style Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of New York’s famous cookies. These cookies are renowned for their thick, gooey centers, crispy edges, and generous chunks of chocolate. Imagine biting into a cookie that feels like a warm hug—rich, satisfying, and utterly indulgent. With this easy recipe, you can recreate the magic of Levain Bakery right in your own home. You won’t need to travel to NYC; just gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Levain Bakery Style Cookies

These cookies are not just any dessert; they are a game changer for cookie lovers! Here’s why:

**Thick and gooey**: The soft texture in the center is pure bliss.
**Crispy edges**: Achieving the perfect contrast is key to their appeal.
**Big chocolate chunks**: Each bite is filled with melty chocolate.
**Easy to make**: Following our easy Levain-style cookie instructions will have you baking like a pro.
**Versatile**: You can customize them with various mix-ins.
**Perfect for any occasion**: Whether it’s a party or a cozy night in, these cookies impress every time.

With their American charm, these homemade Levain Bakery cookies are a must-try dessert!

Ingredients for Levain Bakery Style Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cake flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate chunks

How to Make Levain Bakery Style Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the cold, cubed butter with both sugars until everything’s well combined and just a little fluffy.
Step 2: Add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Toss in the flours, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until everything just comes together—overmixing is the enemy of gooey centers!
Step 4: Fold in your chocolate chips or chunks.
Step 5: Divide the dough into 8 big mounds, about 4 ounces each. Keep them tall and chunky—this is key for that signature Levain look.
Step 6: Bake at 410°F for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges are golden but the centers still look a little underdone. Trust the process!
Step 7: Let the cookies rest right on the baking sheet to finish setting—that’s where the magic happens and the middles stay perfectly gooey.

Pro Tips for the Best Levain Bakery Style Cookies

Keep these in mind:

For best results, use cold butter.
Do not overmix the dough for gooey centers.
Press extra chocolate on top before baking for more melty pockets.
Consider using a mix of chocolate types for added flavor.
Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit for unique variations.

Levain Bakery Style Cookies: 8 Steps to Pure Indulgence - Levain Bakery Style Cookies - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Levain Bakery Style Cookies

Here are a few ideas to elevate your cookie experience:

Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert.
Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat.
Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or your favorite coffee for a classic combo.

How to Store and Reheat Levain Bakery Style Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through. This will revive their gooey texture, making them as good as fresh-baked!

Frequently Asked Questions About Levain Bakery Style Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Levain Bakery Style Cookies?

The secret lies in the cold butter and tall dough mounds that create that iconic thick texture. Always trust the baking time; they should look slightly underbaked in the center.

Can I make Levain Bakery Style Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps the flavors develop even further!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Levain Bakery Style Cookies?

Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the centers gooey. Also, ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking to achieve the right texture.

Variations of Levain Bakery Style Cookies You Can Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

Try different types of chocolate, like dark or white chocolate, for a new flavor profile.
Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Incorporate dried fruits, such as cranberries or cherries, for a sweet and tart twist.
Make them gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend.

Whichever variation you choose, you can’t go wrong with these delicious thick cookies from scratch!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Cookies for a delightful twist. If you’re looking for something different, our Mini Cranberry Cheesecakes are perfect for any occasion!

For more information on baking techniques, you can refer to King Arthur Baking for expert advice.