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; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of these Copycat Levain Cookies, inspired by the famous New York bakery. Perfectly thick and chewy, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-11T11:28:41.529Z

These Copycat Levain Cookies were inspired by the iconic cookies from Levain Bakery in New York City. Known for their massive size and gooey centers, these cookies capture the essence of what makes Levain so special. With a perfect balance of chocolate and dough, they are a chocolate lover's dream come true!

        Why You'll 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 Perfect Balance of Flavors

These Copycat Levain Cookies bring together a delightful combination of rich chocolate and bright citrus notes. The addition of fresh orange zest elevates the traditional chocolate chip cookie experience, creating a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Each bite offers a perfect balance between the sweetness of the chocolate and the refreshing hint of orange, making these cookies truly irresistible.

The use of high-quality chocolate chips is essential in achieving the desired flavor intensity. Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to enhance the richness of the cookie. This careful selection ensures that every bite is a burst of chocolate goodness, satisfying even the most discerning dessert lovers.

Texture That Impresses

One of the standout features of these cookies is their incredible texture. The combination of softened butter and sugars creates a creamy base that results in a chewy, thick cookie. The outer edges are perfectly golden, while the centers remain soft and gooey, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

To achieve this texture, it’s crucial not to overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients. Gently folding in the chocolate chips will help maintain the cookies' structure and ensure they bake to perfection. This approach leads to a cookie that melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a special celebration or simply indulging yourself, these Copycat Levain Cookies are the ideal dessert choice. Their impressive appearance and mouthwatering flavors make them a showstopper at parties, while their comforting taste is perfect for cozy evenings at home.

These cookies also make excellent gifts. Package them in a decorative box or tin, and share the joy with friends and family. They are sure to evoke smiles and compliments, making them a beloved treat for anyone lucky enough to receive them.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

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

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Scoop and Bake

Using a large cookie scoop, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each cookie. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Copycat Levain Cookies!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Copycat Levain Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can remain delicious for up to a week, although they may not last that long due to their popularity! If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing the dough before baking. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh cookies.

If you already baked a batch and have some leftovers, you can also freeze the baked cookies. Just ensure they are completely cool before placing them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize your Copycat Levain Cookies to suit your taste preferences! You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or even caramel chips, to create a unique flavor combination. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can introduce a delightful crunch and additional richness. Just be sure to adjust the quantities of chocolate chips accordingly to maintain the right balance.

For a more gourmet touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before baking. This enhances the flavor and adds a sophisticated finish that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.