Copycat Levain Cookies

Name: Copycat Levain Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the irresistible taste of bakery-style cookies at home with this Copycat Levain Cookies recipe.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:25:56.640Z

These Copycat Levain Cookies are inspired by the famous Levain Bakery in New York City. Known for their massive size and gooey center, these cookies are the perfect treat for any cookie lover. Bake a batch and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Secret to Bakery-Style Cookies

Creating cookies that rival your favorite bakery starts with the right ingredients and techniques. The combination of both brown and granulated sugars in this Copycat Levain Cookies recipe creates a rich, complex flavor while ensuring a chewy texture. The inclusion of softened unsalted butter allows for easy creaming and enhances the overall richness of the cookies, making each bite a delightful experience.

A crucial step in achieving that perfect cookie is proper mixing. Creaming the butter and sugars until smooth incorporates air into the dough, leading to a light and fluffy texture. Be cautious not to overmix once the flour is added; this can lead to tough cookies. Instead, mix until just combined to retain tenderness.

Customization Options

One of the best parts of making cookies at home is the ability to customize them to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips—dark, milk, or even white chocolate can provide a unique twist. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a delightful contrast that enhances the chocolate flavor.

For those looking to incorporate more flavor, consider adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can also complement the chocolate beautifully. The options are endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to suit your preferences or the occasion.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Copycat Levain Cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked warmth. This way, you can always have a delicious cookie on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chocolate chips

Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Scoop and Bake

Using a large cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Copycat Levain Cookies!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting. This allows for better creaming with the sugars, leading to a lighter cookie. If you're short on time, you can soften the butter in the microwave, but be careful not to melt it.

When measuring flour, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing it into the measuring cup, which can result in dry cookies. Spoon the flour into the cup and use a straight edge to level it off for accuracy.

Pairing Suggestions

These Copycat Levain Cookies are wonderful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A glass of cold milk is a classic choice that complements the rich chocolate flavor. For a more indulgent experience, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a decadent dessert sandwich.

If you're looking for something warm, a cup of coffee or hot chocolate can enhance the cookie's flavors. The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies, making it a perfect after-dinner treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite types of chocolate chips, such as white chocolate or dark chocolate.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute if you want a dairy-free option.