Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie)

Soft, chewy and perfectly spiced, the Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie) is an irresistible treat that captures the essence of autumn. Bursting with flavors like dark brown sugar, molasses, and a blend of warm spices, this cookie is ideal for cozy gatherings, fall celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The rich chocolate chips complement the spiced dough, making each bite a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices like cinnamon and ginger creates a warm flavor profile perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are easy enough for bakers of any level.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—from holiday parties to casual family snacks, these cookies will impress everyone.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy a soft, chewy cookie that melts in your mouth thanks to the careful mixing and baking technique.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep and a short bake time, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking these delicious cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy mixture quickly—perfect for incorporating air into your dough.
• Baking sheet: A good quality sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

For these delightful Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie), gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 12 Tablespoons Butter (cold, cut into cubes)
• 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar (may substitute light)
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 1 large Egg
• 2 Tablespoons Molasses
• 2 cups Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (1/4 tsp if using salted butter)
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1 1/4 teaspoon Ground Ginger (may reduce to 1 teaspoon)
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (may reduce to 1/4 teaspoon)
• 1/8 teaspoon Ground Cloves (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups Chocolate Chips or Chunks

How to Make Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your cookies bake evenly right from the start.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat the cold butter along with dark brown sugar and sugar for about 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Molasses

Next:
1. Add in the molasses and egg.
2. Mix for an additional minute until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now:
1. Fold in flour, baking soda, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and chocolate chips until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Proceed to:
1. Roll the dough into balls weighing about 4 ounces up to 6 ounces as desired.
2. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Finally:
1. Bake in your preheated oven for about 8–10 minutes.
2. The cookies may look slightly underdone; let them rest on the sheet for about 10–15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Enjoy these warm Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies at any gathering or as a comforting snack!

How to Serve Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie)

These delightful cookies are perfect for any autumn gathering or cozy night in. Their rich flavors and chewy texture make them a versatile treat that pairs well with various accompaniments.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk. The creaminess of the milk complements the spices and chocolate perfectly.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create indulgent ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This combination is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Warmed with Whipped Cream

• Lightly warm the cookies in the microwave and serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top. This adds a luxurious touch to your dessert.

With Hot Apple Cider

• Pair these cookies with hot apple cider for a comforting fall treat. The warmth of the cider enhances the spices in the cookie.

For Dessert Platters

• Include these cookies on dessert platters alongside other fall treats like pumpkin pie or caramel apples. They add variety and flavor to your spread.

How to Perfect Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie)

To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes can help improve texture and prevent spreading during baking.
• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter will help create a fluffier cookie by incorporating air during mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour and spices; overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
• Check Oven Temperature: Always ensure your oven is correctly calibrated; an incorrect temperature can affect cooking time and cookie texture.
• Use Parchment Paper: Baking on parchment paper prevents sticking and allows for even cooking, leading to perfectly baked cookies.
• Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for additional flavor and texture variations.

Best Side Dishes for Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie)

These cookies can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious ideas to serve alongside your cookies.

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A warm beverage that echoes the fall flavors found in the cookie, enhancing the overall experience.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over warm cookies adds richness and decadence, making them even more irresistible.
3. Cheese Plate: Pairing sharp cheeses like aged cheddar can create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookie.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with apples, pears, or berries provides a refreshing balance against the hearty cookie.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Serve melted chocolate as a dipping option for an interactive dessert experience that guests will love.
6. Roasted Nuts: A bowl of mixed roasted nuts offers a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the cookies wonderfully.
7. Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea harmonize beautifully with these cookies, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly evenings.
8. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a light side dish that contrasts nicely with the rich cookie flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie), avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Refrigerate for at least an hour to maintain shape.
• Using Warm Butter: If the butter is not cold enough, the texture will be off. Always start with cold, cubed butter for a chewy cookie.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine ingredients until just mixed to keep them soft and chewy.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie doneness. Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can change the cookie’s texture. Always measure using the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie)

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping carefully until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies.

Can I substitute other sugars in this recipe?

Yes, you can use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar if preferred; however, it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

How can I make these cookies healthier?

Consider reducing the amount of sugar or using whole wheat flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour for added nutrients.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even substitute chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a twist on this classic cookie.

How long do these cookies last at room temperature?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to 5 days at room temperature without losing freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie (Levain Bakery Fall Cookie) is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfectly combining spices and chocolate, it’s ideal for autumn gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Feel free to customize it with additional spices or mix-ins to suit your taste!