Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the first tray of these Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies from the oven, a warm, inviting aroma enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café in New York City. If you’ve ever been tempted by the rich, gooey cookies at Levain Bakery, you’re in for a treat! This recipe not only recreates their signature style, but it also features a delightful twist with toasted coconut and luscious caramel bits. Creating these indulgent desserts is a breeze, making them perfect for both seasoned bakers and weekend warriors alike. Plus, the soft center and crispy edges guarantee a comforting bite that will leave you, and anyone you share them with, smiling from ear to ear. Ready to impress your friends and family with a homemade classic? Let’s dive into the deliciousness! Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Giant Cookies: These Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies are not just your average cookie; their generous size guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Unique Twist: The addition of toasted coconut and rich caramel bits takes the classic chocolate chip cookie to another level, delivering a delightful surprise. Easy to Bake: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these scrumptious treats ready to share in no time, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Crowd Pleaser: Serve them warm and watch as friends and family rave over this indulgent dessert, similar to the beloved cookies from Levain Bakery. Customize Your Way: Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips or add in nuts for a personalized touch, making each batch uniquely yours. Don’t forget to check out our Cookies Cream Oreo and Gingerbread Men Cookies for more baking inspiration! Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies Ingredients For the Batter • Salted Butter – 1 cup (226 g); provides richness and moisture; can substitute with unsalted butter, adding a pinch of salt. • Dark Brown Sugar – 3/4 cup (100 g); adds deep caramel flavor and moisture; lightly packed for best results. • Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup (100 g); balances sweetness and contributes to texture. • Eggs – 2; binds ingredients and adds moisture. • Vanilla Bean Paste – 1 tablespoon (or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract); enhances the cookie’s flavor. • All-Purpose Flour – 1 1/2 cups (180 g); creates structure for the cookies. • Cake Flour – 1 1/4 cups (160 g); delivers tenderness for a soft texture; can substitute with more all-purpose flour for a different result. • Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon; adds lift to the cookies. • Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon; contributes to spread and texture. • Salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances flavor; adjust if using salted butter. For the Mix-ins • Sweetened Coconut Flakes – 2 cups (160 g); provides chewiness and coconut flavor. • Chocolate Chips – 2 cups (12 oz); adds richness and sweetness; can vary by type (dark, milk, etc.). • Caramel Bits or Toffee Bits – 1/2 cup (75 g); introduces a rich, chewy element to the cookies. These Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies blend classic flavors with tasty twists, making them irresistible and satisfying! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that golden crisp on the edges while keeping the center soft and gooey. As the oven warms up, grab your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal later. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine 1 cup of softened salted butter, 3/4 cup of dark brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix them on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, ensuring your Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies will be delightfully tender. Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla Next, add in 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of vanilla bean paste (or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract) to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, approximately 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture looks smooth and velvety, enhancing the flavor of your cookies. Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups of cake flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the stand mixer on low speed. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix, which will help maintain the cookies’ tender texture. Step 5: Fold in the Mix-ins Now, it’s time for the fun part! Gently fold in 2 cups of sweetened coconut flakes, 2 cups of chocolate chips, and 1/2 cup of caramel bits into the dough using a spatula. Ensure that everything is evenly distributed without overworking the dough, which helps your Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies achieve that perfect chewy texture. Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough Using a large cookie scoop or your hands, scoop the dough into eight roughly 6-ounce irregularly shaped balls. Place these dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving ample space between each ball for spreading. Remember, the more rustic the shape, the better the final texture – don’t roll them smooth! Step 7: Bake the Cookies Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be golden around the edges but remain soft in the center. This contrast in texture is what makes these Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies so irresistible. Step 8: Cool the Cookies Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period is essential for achieving that desirable gooey center combined with a slightly crisp exterior. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you wait! Expert Tips for Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies Don’t Overmix: Ensure to mix your dough until just combined to keep your Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies tender and soft. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Rustic Shapes: Scoop the dough into irregularly shaped balls for that signature Levain look. Smooth balls may bake too evenly, losing that delightful chew. Cooling Time: Resist the temptation to dig in right away! Cooling for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly. Don’t Skip the Parchment: Using parchment paper on your baking sheets helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cookie removal after baking. Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to customize your Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies with different chocolate types, nuts, or dried fruits for a unique twist in flavor. Proper Storage for Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft center and crispy edges. Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, keep the cookies in the fridge; they will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, though the texture may become denser. Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for your Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, pop cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore their gooey goodness. What to Serve with Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies? Indulge your senses as you create a memorable meal centered around these delightful cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Classic Milk: The creaminess of cold milk perfectly complements the rich flavors, making each bite of the cookie even more satisfying. Espresso or Coffee: A bold cup of coffee enhances the cookie’s sweetness and brings out the deep chocolate flavors for a delightful after-dinner treat. Fresh Berries: The tartness of ripe strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the cookies’ sweetness while brightening up your dessert table. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the warm cookies à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a heavenly melt-in-your-mouth experience with textures that harmonize beautifully. Coconut-Infused Tea: A cup of light coconut tea brings out the tropical notes in the cookies, providing a soothing sip that echoes the coconut flavor. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore, enhancing the dessert experience. These pairings not only celebrate the flavors of Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies but also elevate your entire dessert experience, making it a truly delightful occasion. Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies Variations Feel free to get creative and make these delightful cookies truly your own! Nutty Delight: Fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor. Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make these cookies suitable for lactose intolerance. Oatmeal Twist: Substitute 1 cup of flour with rolled oats for a hearty texture and a rustic taste that’s simply irresistible. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for a subtle kick that will surprise your taste buds. Caramel Swirl: Instead of caramel bits, swirl homemade caramel sauce into the cookie dough for a rich, molten center that oozes with each bite. Extractor’s Choice: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut to add a unique twist to your cookie’s flavor profile. Each bite will have a delightful subtlety that dances on your palate! Dark Chocolate Love: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper flavor, perfectly complementing the caramel’s sweetness. These variations not only elevate your baking experience but will also leave your family and friends talking about these cookies long after they’re gone. For more indulgent desserts, think about trying our Healthy Chocolate Cookies or our rich Caramelized Banana Cheesecake. Happy baking! Make Ahead Options These Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking routine! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and form the dough balls as directed. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors! When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the cold dough balls into a preheated oven and add an extra minute or two to your baking time for deliciously warm cookies. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months; just be sure to separate them on the baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy quick, indulgent treats with minimal effort! Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ingredients for the cookies? Absolutely! For these Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies, make sure your butter is at room temperature so it creams well. Look for dark brown sugar that is fresh and moist, as it will add rich caramel notes. When selecting coconut flakes, opt for sweetened ones; they provide a lovely chewiness and flavor. Check that the chocolate chips are of high quality because they’ll significantly impact the taste! What’s the best way to store the cookies? To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, though the texture may become denser. Just make sure to separate any layers of cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Can I freeze the cookie dough and how? Absolutely! Freezing the unbaked dough is a great idea. After scooping the dough into irregularly shaped balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the cookie dough balls to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough balls out and bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking? Very! If your Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies spread excessively, there are a few things to check. First, ensure your butter wasn’t too soft; it should be at room temperature, not melted. Additionally, you might want to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, as this helps control spread. Lastly, if the dough wasn’t mixed enough before adding the dry ingredients, it can affect texture and spreading, so mix just until combined. Are these cookies suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions? These cookies contain common allergens like gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter), and eggs, making them unsuitable for those with certain allergies. For a dairy-free option, substitute with a plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips. If you need them gluten-free, you can try a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for the regular flour; just be sure to include xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t contain it. Always check the specific brands to ensure they fit your dietary needs! Irresistible Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies You'll Love These Levain Coconut Caramel Cookies are giant, chewy, and a delightful twist on the classic cookie, featuring toasted coconut and rich caramel. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 14 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 4 minutes mins Servings: 8 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter1 cup Salted Butter can substitute with unsalted butter, adding a pinch of salt3/4 cup Dark Brown Sugar lightly packed for best results1/2 cup Granulated Sugar2 Eggs large1 tablespoon Vanilla Bean Paste or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour1 1/4 cups Cake Flour can substitute with more all-purpose flour1 teaspoon Baking Powder1 teaspoon Baking Soda1 teaspoon Salt adjust if using salted butterFor the Mix-ins2 cups Sweetened Coconut Flakes2 cups Chocolate Chips can vary by type (dark, milk, etc.)1/2 cup Caramel Bits or Toffee Bits Equipment Stand Mixerbaking sheetsParchment paperLarge cookie scoop Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.In a stand mixer, cream together salted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.Add eggs and vanilla bean paste to the mixture, and mix until just combined.In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to wet mixture and mix until just combined.Gently fold in sweetened coconut flakes, chocolate chips, and caramel bits into the dough.Scoop the dough into eight roughly 6-ounce irregularly shaped balls and place on baking sheets.Bake for 12-14 minutes, until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for at least 30 minutes before enjoying. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 3gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 75mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and soft. Experiment with different types of chocolate or add nuts for customization. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
