Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

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Dessert

Introduction to Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

There’s something magical about cookies that can transport you back to your childhood, isn’t there? These Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any busy day. With their rich chocolatey goodness, chewy texture, and gooey marshmallows, they’re perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet surprise for your loved ones. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just life in general, this recipe is a simple solution that will impress everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

These Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies are not just delicious; they’re a breeze to make! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone raving. The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. You’ll love how quickly they disappear!

Ingredients for Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to cookie bliss! Here’s what you’ll need for these scrumptious Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies:

  • Unsalted butter: This is the base of your cookies, providing richness and flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
  • Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor, making your cookies chewy and delicious.
  • Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps create that perfect cookie texture.
  • Large eggs: They bind everything together and contribute to the cookies’ structure and moisture.
  • Vanilla extract: A splash of this magical ingredient enhances the overall flavor, making your cookies irresistible.
  • All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookie dough, providing structure and stability.
  • Cocoa powder: This is what gives your cookies that rich chocolate flavor. Use high-quality cocoa for the best results.
  • Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps your cookies rise and become fluffy.
  • Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These little morsels melt beautifully, adding pockets of chocolatey goodness.
  • Mini marshmallows: They bring that classic Rocky Road flavor, adding a delightful chewiness.
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans: These nuts add crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.

For those looking to switch things up, consider using dark chocolate chips for a richer taste or swapping out the nuts for your favorite variety. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to cookie heaven in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial for baking cookies. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. A hot oven helps the cookies rise properly, giving them that delightful chewy texture we all love.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This process is essential for creating the right texture in your cookies. The air you incorporate while creaming helps them rise and become light. Aim for a pale, creamy mixture that looks inviting!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. These ingredients not only bind everything together but also enhance the flavor. The eggs add moisture, while the vanilla brings a warm, comforting aroma that makes your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Each dry ingredient plays a vital role: flour provides structure, cocoa adds rich chocolate flavor, baking soda helps with leavening, and salt balances the sweetness. This combination is the foundation of your cookie dough.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and chewy. A few flour streaks are perfectly fine!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate, Marshmallows, and Nuts

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts. Folding is key here; it helps distribute the mix without deflating the dough. This step ensures that every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness, gooey marshmallows, and crunchy nuts. Yum!

Step 7: Shape and Bake

Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool!

Step 8: Cooling the Cookies

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is essential for developing the perfect texture and flavor. This step allows the cookies to firm up while still being soft and chewy in the center. Enjoy the aroma while you wait!

Tips for Success

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
  • Don’t skip the cooling step; it enhances flavor and texture.
  • For extra chewiness, slightly underbake the cookies.
  • Experiment with different nuts or chocolate types for unique flavors.
  • Keep an eye on baking time; every oven is different!

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. Any size will do!
  • Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk and some elbow grease can do the job too.
  • Baking sheet: Use a standard cookie sheet or any flat baking tray you have on hand.
  • Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil can be a good substitute.
  • Cookie scoop or spoon: A scoop ensures even-sized cookies, but a regular spoon works just fine!

Variations of Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
  • Nut-Free: Omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative that still adds crunch.
  • Vegan: Use vegan butter and flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to create a plant-based version.
  • Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract and some crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing twist.
  • Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that complements the chocolate.

Serving Suggestions for Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

  • Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert.
  • Present them on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
  • Enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy afternoon snack.
  • Wrap them in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a delightful homemade gift.

FAQs about Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies

Can I use different types of chocolate in these cookies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a unique twist. Each type will bring its own flavor profile to the Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies, making them even more delightful!

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking. This can enhance the flavors and make for a quick baking session later!

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping your cookies deliciously chewy!

Why are my cookies flat instead of thick?

Flat cookies can result from overmixing the dough or using melted butter instead of softened butter. Make sure to cream the butter and sugars well, and avoid overworking the dough. This will help your Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies maintain their delightful thickness!

Final Thoughts

Making Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in your kitchen. The joy of pulling warm, gooey cookies from the oven is unmatched. Each bite is a delightful mix of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts that brings smiles to faces young and old. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to brighten your day. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your home with happiness!

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Levain Bakery Rocky Road Cookies: Indulge in Heaven!


  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Deliciously rich and chewy cookies inspired by Levain Bakery’s famous Rocky Road cookies, featuring chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
  3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts.
  7. Drop large spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
  9. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Levain Bakery, Rocky Road Cookies, chocolate cookies, dessert recipes

Credit by:

Sophie

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