Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies

Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. With their slightly crisp edges and gooey, chocolatey centers, these cookies are perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. The use of gluten-free flour ensures that those with dietary restrictions can indulge in these bakery-style delights without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: These cookies are packed with rich chocolate and toasted pecans, creating a satisfying taste experience.
• Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions help even novice bakers create impressive cookies at home.
• Perfect for Sharing: With large portions, these cookies are great for parties, potlucks, or simply sharing with family and friends.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in different chocolates or nuts based on your preference!
• Gooey Texture: Achieve that perfect gooey center by following our baking tips.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper
• Kitchen scale

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: This tool makes it easy to cream butter and sugars together until light and fluffy, ensuring even texture.
• Kitchen Scale: Measuring ingredients by weight provides accuracy, leading to better results in your baked goods.

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Ingredients

To prepare these delectable cookies, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 300 grams Gluten Free Flour (I recommend Cup4Cup for this recipe)
• 30 grams cornstarch
• 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Wet Ingredients

• 113 grams unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 100 grams light brown sugar
• 115 grams granulated white sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, room temperature

Mix-Ins

• 425 grams mixed chocolate
• 150 grams toasted pecans

How to Make Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, mix together the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

1. In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, granulated white sugar, vanilla extract, and kosher salt.
2. Start mixing at low speed to combine before increasing to medium speed.
3. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 4-6 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

1. Turn off the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl as well as the paddle.
2. With the mixer on low speed, add the large egg followed by the egg yolk one at a time.
3. Allow each egg to fully incorporate before adding the next.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

1. With the mixer running on low again, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture until just combined.
2. Carefully fold in the mixed chocolate and toasted pecans until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Chill Dough

1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
2. Portion out dough into 6oz cookies using a kitchen scale.
3. Wrap the sheet tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12 hours to hydrate flour and develop flavor.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange four cookie dough balls on your parchment-lined sheet pan.
3. Sprinkle them lightly with flaky sea salt before placing them in the oven.
4. Bake for 10 minutes; then rotate the tray and reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake for an additional 6-9 minutes until crispy around edges but puffy in center.

Step 7: Cool Down

1. Remove cookies from oven and let cool on sheet tray for about 5-10 minutes before enjoying warm!

Repeat with remaining dough or freeze any extras for future cravings! Enjoy your freshly baked Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies!

How to Serve Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies

Serving your homemade Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these cookies.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk. The creamy texture complements the gooey chocolate center perfectly.

Warmed Up

• Slightly warm your cookies in the microwave for a few seconds. This enhances their gooeyness and makes the chocolate even more melty.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Choose your favorite dairy-free ice cream for a delicious treat.

Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your cookies with a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The flavors mix beautifully, making for a cozy snack time.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas. The sweetness from the fruit balances the richness of the cookies.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies

Perfecting Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps in achieving a light and fluffy cookie dough.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 12 hours hydrates the flour and enhances flavor, leading to a better texture.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Bake until edges are crispy but centers look slightly underdone. This gives you that gooey texture characteristic of bakery-style cookies.

• Experiment with Chocolate Types: Try different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to customize flavors according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a crunchy contrast that pairs well with soft cookies.

3. Nut Butter Spread
   Serve nut butters like almond or cashew alongside cookies for an added richness that complements them nicely.

4. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which provide savory notes that balance sweet flavors.

5. Homemade Whipped Cream
   Top any leftover cookies with freshly whipped cream for an indulgent treat that feels extra special.

6. Chocolate Dipping Sauce
   Melt some chocolate and serve it as a dipping sauce for those who crave extra chocolatey goodness!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking gluten-free cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour: Not all gluten-free flours behave the same way. Stick to recommended brands like Cup4Cup for the best results.
• Neglecting chilling time: Skipping the chilling period can result in cookies that spread too much. Always refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 12 hours.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined, especially after adding flour.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is precise. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy when measuring ingredients.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies

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

Reheating Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies.

What makes these cookies gluten-free?

These cookies use gluten-free flour, specifically Cup4Cup, ensuring they are safe for those avoiding gluten.

Can I substitute the nuts?

Yes, you can use other nuts or even chocolate chips instead of pecans if desired.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be crispy, while the center remains slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to add different mix-ins like dried fruit, other types of nuts, or various chocolates for unique flavors!

Are these cookies suitable for potlucks?

Absolutely! These Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies are perfect potluck treats that everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten Free Levain Bakery Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy warm, gooey cookies that everyone will love!