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; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped walnuts

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Copycat Levain Cookies bring the famous New York bakery experience right to your kitchen. Enjoy thick, chewy cookies that are loaded with chocolate chips and walnuts.

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:55:59.026Z

Indulge in the delight of these Copycat Levain Cookies, inspired by the iconic bakery in New York City. With a perfect balance of crispy edges and a gooey center, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy walnuts
Thick, chewy texture that satisfies every sweet tooth
Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own

      

The Secret to Perfectly Thick Cookies

Achieving the ideal thickness in cookies requires the right balance of ingredients and baking techniques. The use of both brown and granulated sugar not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the chewy texture that makes these cookies so delightful. Brown sugar brings moisture, while granulated sugar helps create a slight crispness on the edges, resulting in a perfectly balanced cookie.

Another key factor is the temperature of your butter. Softened butter allows for easy creaming with the sugars, incorporating air into the batter for a lighter texture. Be sure not to melt the butter, as this will lead to a flatter cookie. Instead, let your butter sit at room temperature until it’s soft enough to leave a slight indentation when pressed.

Customizing Your Cookies

While the classic chocolate chip and walnut combination is a crowd favorite, these cookies are incredibly versatile. You can customize your mix-ins to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a sweet and tangy twist. Alternatively, swap out walnuts for pecans or macadamia nuts for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

For those who love a touch of spice, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can elevate the flavor profile even further. Experimenting with different chocolate types, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, can also add complexity to these cookies. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Storing and Reheating Cookies

To keep your Copycat Levain Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but with the deliciousness of these cookies, they may not last that long! If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When you're ready to enjoy a cookie, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their gooey texture. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds will do the trick. Just be careful not to overheat, as this could make them tough.

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
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.

Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.

Scoop and Bake

Using a large cookie scoop, drop generous portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, enjoy these cookies warm or store them in an airtight container for later!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional value of your baked goods can help you enjoy them responsibly. Each Copycat Levain Cookie contains a delightful mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, primarily from the sugars, butter, and eggs. While these cookies are indulgent, they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

To make these cookies a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This swap increases the fiber content, making your cookies not only tastier but also more satisfying. Additionally, you can reduce the sugar slightly or try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking is both an art and a science. To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precision, especially for flour. Too much flour can result in dry cookies, while too little can make them too gooey.

Another tip is to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld together and can result in a thicker cookie that spreads less during baking. If you choose to chill the dough, be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

These Copycat Levain Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that will impress your guests. Alternatively, enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

For a more festive presentation, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies or dusting them with powdered sugar before serving. Pair them with fresh fruit or a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. No matter how you serve them, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in white chocolate or dark chocolate for a unique twist.

→ How do I store leftover 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 3 months. Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

If you're allergic to nuts or prefer not to use them, you can substitute with more chocolate chips or dried fruits.