Levain Bakery, known for its large cookies, has a special treat: the Black and White Cookie. This New York favorite has been perfected by Levain Bakery, making it a must-try for cookie lovers. These cookies have a rich, chocolatey side and a smooth, vanilla-glazed side. With their unique look and delicious taste, Levain Bakery’s Black and White Cookies are loved by both locals and visitors. In this article, we’ll explore what makes these cookies special, how they are made, and why you should try them.
Table of contents
Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
How to Make Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies?
Creating these iconic cookies at home is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to bring a piece of Levain Bakery into your kitchen:
- Gather Ingredients: You’ll need flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar.
- Prepare the Dough: Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop dough onto baking sheets, shaping each scoop into a round cookie. Bake until golden brown.
- Prepare the Glazes: Mix confectioners’ sugar with milk for the white glaze. For the chocolate glaze, add cocoa powder to the mixture.
- Decorate: Once cookies cool, spread white glaze over half of each cookie and chocolate glaze over the other half. Let them set before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- For the icing:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons water
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a small bowl, combine buttermilk, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat until combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound of dough slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the icing, in a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and enough water to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Transfer half of the icing to a separate bowl and add cocoa powder and water, stirring until smooth.
- Frost half of each cookie with the vanilla icing and the other half with the chocolate icing. Allow icing to set before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 14 minutes | Total Time: 29 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 12 cookies
Tips for Perfect Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies:
To ensure your cookies turn out just like Levain Bakery’s, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough mix evenly.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies keep their shape.
Helpful Tips
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies. They should be golden, not brown.
- Cooling: Allow cookies to cool completely before applying the glaze.
Cooking Tips
- Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Evenly Sized Cookies: Use an ice cream scoop for uniform cookies.
- Test Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:
- With Coffee or Tea: Their sweetness pairs wonderfully with a hot beverage.
- As a Dessert: Serve them at the end of a meal for a delightful finish.
- For Special Occasions: These cookies make a great addition to any party or gathering.
With this guide, you’re ready to make your own Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious treats!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. It lets you enjoy the famous taste of Levain Bakery’s Black and White Cookies at home. The mix of chocolate and vanilla glazes gives a pleasant contrast in each bite. Plus, the recipe is simple, so both new and experienced bakers can make it. These cookies suit any event, like family gatherings, a special treat for yourself, or a gift for friends. Their distinct look and tasty flavor will impress everyone.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies fresh and tasty, follow these storage and reheating tips:
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Place the cookies in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to one week.
- Refrigeration: It’s best to avoid refrigerating the cookies, as this can dry them out.
Freezing:
- Preparation: If you want to store the cookies for a longer time, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
- Storage Duration: Frozen cookies can be kept for up to three months.
Reheating:
- From Room Temperature: To enjoy a warm cookie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie on a baking sheet and warm it for a few minutes until it reaches your desired temperature.
- From Frozen: Let the cookie thaw at room temperature. Once thawed, you can warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes to restore its fresh-from-the-oven taste.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies at their best, whether you’re indulging immediately or saving them for later.
FAQs: Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies
What makes Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies unique?
Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies stand out due to their perfect balance of chocolate and vanilla flavors. Each half of the cookie is glazed with a different icing, providing a delightful contrast in taste and appearance.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help enhance the flavor and make the baking process more convenient.
How can I ensure my cookies turn out soft and chewy?
To achieve soft and chewy cookies, avoid overmixing the dough and ensure not to overbake them. Removing the cookies from the oven when they are just set and slightly golden helps maintain their softness.
What is the best way to apply the glaze?
For the best results, apply the glaze to completely cooled cookies. Use a small spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the glazes evenly. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature.
Can I customize the glazes?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors by adding extracts like almond or lemon to the glazes. Additionally, you can use food coloring to create festive cookies for special occasions.
Levain Bakery Black and White Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both chocolate and vanilla flavors. This recipe allows you to recreate these iconic cookies at home, offering a taste of New York’s finest.
With easy-to-follow steps and helpful tips, you can enjoy these delicious cookies anytime. Whether you’re a fan of Levain Bakery or just love trying new recipes, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Happy baking!
In conclusion, Levain Bakery’s Black and White Cookies offer a delightful blend of rich chocolate and smooth vanilla flavors, making them a must-try treat for both locals and visitors. Their unique appearance and delectable taste have made them a favorite among cookie enthusiasts. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the bakery or baking a batch at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Remember to store them properly to maintain their freshness and consider reheating them slightly before serving to enhance their gooey texture. Don’t miss out on experiencing this iconic New York delicacy.