Imagine sinking your teeth into the most incredible chocolate chip cookie you've ever tasted - thick, chewy, with perfectly crisp edges and a molten chocolate center that makes your taste buds dance with joy. These Levain Bakery-inspired cookies aren't just a recipe; they're a culinary experience that will transform your home baking forever. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious novice, this recipe promises to deliver bakery-quality cookies that will have everyone begging for your secret.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups of chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients and bring butter and eggs to room temperature before starting.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract and mix until fully integrated.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in chocolate chips using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and prevent excessive spreading during baking.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop large, generous portions of dough (about 4 ounces each) and shape into tall, round mounds. Place them 2-3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and centers are slightly soft but set.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy the cookies warm or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure butter and eggs are truly at room temperature for the most luxurious, creamy texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep cookies tender and prevent tough texture.
- Chill the Dough: The 30-minute refrigeration is crucial - it allows flavors to develop and prevents excessive spreading.
- Size Matters: Use a large scoop (about 4 ounces) to create those signature tall, bakery-style cookies.
- Watch Baking Time Carefully: Remove cookies when edges are golden but centers still look slightly underbaked for that perfect soft interior.
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate chips and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Let Cookies Rest: Allowing cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet helps them set and develop a perfect texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 90mg
