Levain Bakery NYC Cookies

Levain Bakery NYC Cookies are legendary for their thick, gooey centers and irresistibly crisp edges. Packed with chunks of chocolate and walnuts, these cookies are the ultimate indulgence, with each bite delivering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. If you’ve ever craved a taste of New York City’s famous cookies at home, this recipe will bring the magic to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Thick, bakery-style cookies with a gooey center.
2. Packed with chocolate and walnuts for a rich, satisfying treat.
3. Easy to make with everyday ingredients.
4. No need to chill the dough—perfect for instant gratification.
5. A decadent dessert or gift that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar (light or dark)
• Eggs
• Cake flour
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
• Walnuts, roughly chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cold butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined but not overly creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
4. Add the Mix-Ins: Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts until evenly distributed.
5. Form the Cookies: Divide the dough into large portions, about 6 ounces each. Roll into rough balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving plenty of space between them.
6. Bake: Bake for 9–12 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Do not overbake!
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 8 large cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 9–12 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Double Chocolate: Replace some of the flour with cocoa powder for a double chocolate version.
• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or substitute with additional chocolate chips.
• White Chocolate Macadamia: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate and use macadamia nuts instead of walnuts.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Add peanut butter chips and chopped peanuts for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free adaptation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
• Reheating: Warm baked cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes for a freshly baked texture.

FAQs

1. Why are these cookies baked at such a high temperature?

The high temperature creates a crisp outer layer while keeping the center gooey and soft.

2. Can I substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour?

Using cake flour helps achieve a tender texture, but if unavailable, you can substitute with all-purpose flour.

3. Do I have to use cold butter?

Yes, cold butter is key to maintaining the thick structure of the cookies.

4. Can I chill the dough?

Chilling isn’t required, but it can enhance the flavors and texture if you have time.

5. Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Try dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or a mix for variety.

6. Why is cornstarch used in the recipe?

Cornstarch helps create a tender and soft texture while preventing the cookies from spreading too much.

7. Are these cookies supposed to be underbaked?

Yes, the centers should remain gooey for the signature Levain-style texture.

8. Can I make smaller cookies?

Yes, but reduce the baking time to 7–9 minutes to avoid overbaking.

9. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be set, and the tops lightly golden, but the centers will still appear soft.

10. Can I toast the walnuts?

Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, but it’s optional based on your preference.

Conclusion

Levain Bakery NYC Cookies are a decadent, bakery-style treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy afternoon snack or impressing guests with a dessert to remember, these cookies deliver on flavor, texture, and pure satisfaction. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!

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