It’s hard to resist the warm, gooey goodness of chocolate chip cookies, especially when they’re inspired by the famous Levain Bakery. These decadent chocolate chip walnut cookies are a perfect treat for anyone craving something sweet and comforting. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie filled with rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts. It’s a homemade delight that’s ideal for sharing or savoring all by yourself!
Introduction
There’s something truly heartwarming about baking cookies.This Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe captures that spirit and brings a taste of New York’s beloved bakery right into your kitchen. Perfect for friends, family, or simply a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to delight anyone who tries them! The aroma wafting through the house, the anticipation, and the ultimate reward of biting into a warm, freshly baked treat make it an activity everyone should enjoy.
A Bit About the Recipe
Inspired by the renowned Levain Bakery, this cookie recipe combines the classic flavors of chocolate and walnuts in a wonderfully chewy texture. The cold butter creates a rich base that pairs harmoniously with the sweetness of brown sugar and the crunch of walnuts. It’s a super easy recipe that promises bakery-style cookies without the commute to the city!
Ingredients for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (recommend Guittard or Ghirardelli)
- 2 cups chopped walnuts
Optional Substitutions:
- For a nut-free option, substitute walnuts with more chocolate chips.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour blends in place of all-purpose flour.
How to Make Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 410°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the cold butter, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar. Start on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium for another 30 seconds. Finish by beating on high speed for another 30 seconds until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring to scrape down the sides of the bowl after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch, baking soda, salt, cake flour, and all-purpose flour. Slowly add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed until just incorporated.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Using a digital kitchen scale, measure out roughly 6-ounce balls of dough. You don’t need perfect shapes; just lightly form them. Place four dough balls on each baking sheet, spaced about 3 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake one sheet at a time on the middle rack for 10-13 minutes. The cookies should be slightly underdone in the middle. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 30 minutes before moving to a wire rack.
Helpful Tips for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe
- Always use cold butter for the best texture in your cookies.
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother dough.
- Leave enough space between cookie dough balls for spreading while baking.
Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist!
Storage and Leftovers for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw and enjoy whenever you like!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While possible, using cold unsalted butter is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How can I get my cookies to stay chewy?
Don’t overbake! The cookies should look soft in the middle when you take them out of the oven.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 72 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before shaping.
Conclusion
Baking your own cookies can be a rewarding experience, especially when the end result is this delicious. We hope you dive into this Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Recipe and enjoy every moment of it! Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and any tweaks you make along the way. Happy baking!