How to Make the Famous Recipe at Home

Thick, gooey, and packed with melty chocolate, these Levain Bakery-inspired cookies bring the magic of NYC’s most famous treat right to your kitchen—but with a lighter twist. These cookies are known for their crisp exterior, soft and doughy center, and generous chocolate chunks, making them an irresistible indulgence.

This version maintains all the decadence and texture of the original while keeping things balanced. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, these cookies will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bakery-Style Goodness: Thick, gooey, and loaded with chocolate.
Lighter Ingredients: Enjoy without the guilt.
Easy to Make: No fancy equipment or chilling time required.
Perfectly Balanced: Crisp on the outside, soft in the middle.
Customizable: Swap mix-ins or use different chocolate varieties.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour (or oat flour for a nut-free option)
  • ½ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar substitute)
  • ¼ cup granulated sweetener of choice
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp light butter or coconut oil, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (adds moisture without extra fat)
  • ¾ cup dark chocolate chunks (or sugar-free chocolate chips)
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

Preheat & Prep
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
  1. In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, salt, and sweeteners until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients
  1. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, Greek yogurt, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Bring It Together
  1. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms.
  2. Gently fold in the chocolate chunks and walnuts.
Shape & Bake
  1. Scoop out large portions of dough (about ¼ cup per cookie) and place them onto the baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the center remains soft.
  3. Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Calories: 180 | Carbs: 15g | Fat: 10g | Protein: 5g | Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

  • Use Chunks, Not Chips: Chopped chocolate melts better and creates pockets of gooey goodness.
  • Don’t Overbake: These cookies should have a slightly underdone center for that signature Levain texture.
  • Chill for Extra Thickness: If time allows, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
  • Customize Mix-Ins: Try white chocolate, pecans, or even dried fruit for variety.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer shelf life.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Healthier Swaps: Almond flour and Greek yogurt keep them lighter without sacrificing texture.
  • Bakery-Worthy Results: Thick, chunky cookies that rival the famous NYC version.
  • Satisfying & Nourishing: Balanced sweetness and protein for a treat that fuels your day.
  • Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are big, bold, and crowd-pleasing!

These Levain-style cookies prove that a bakery-level indulgence can be made lighter without losing any of the magic. Thick, chewy, and loaded with melty chocolate, they’re the ultimate homemade treat—whether for a cozy night in or an impressive dessert for guests.

One bite and you’ll see why these cookies have a legendary reputation—and now, you can enjoy them in a way that fits your lifestyle!

How to Make the Famous Recipe at Home

Recipe by 2mrecipes
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

12

minutes
Calories

180

kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond flour (or oat flour for a nut-free option)

  • ½ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar substitute)

  • ¼ cup granulated sweetener of choice

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 2 tbsp light butter or coconut oil, melted

  • 1 large egg

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (adds moisture without extra fat)

  • ¾ cup dark chocolate chunks (or sugar-free chocolate chips)

  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

  • Preheat & Prep
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients
    In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, salt, and sweeteners until well combined.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, Greek yogurt, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Bring It Together
    Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms.
    Gently fold in the chocolate chunks and walnuts.
  • Shape & Bake
    Scoop out large portions of dough (about ¼ cup per cookie) and place them onto the baking sheet.
    Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the center remains soft.
    Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

  • Use Chunks, Not Chips: Chopped chocolate melts better and creates pockets of gooey goodness.
    Don’t Overbake: These cookies should have a slightly underdone center for that signature Levain texture.
    Chill for Extra Thickness: If time allows, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
    Customize Mix-Ins: Try white chocolate, pecans, or even dried fruit for variety.
    Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer shelf life.

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