Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies

 

Yet another cookie recipe you might think. But let me invite you to stay a little bit longer on this page and read the story behind this recipe. 

Last fall, I went to see a friend in New York, and the second night of my stay we went to a bbq night at one of her friends'. The French-Puerto Rican couple, who were such great hosts, served great grilled steak and beautiful salads and cheese. You already feel the French summer night vibe here, right? 

Once we finished our meal, the hosts served Levain cookies for dessert. If you ever had cookies from the Levain Bakery, you know how awesome this was. They're undoubtedly the best cookies in the world. It's the perfect ratio of crispness on the outside, and gooeyness on the inside. 

I stayed several days in the city, then continued my trip to the Hamptons, and later on to Boston/ Cambridge to visit another friend. A fews days there, I introduced her to the Levain cookies. We both agreed: best cookies in the world. I was so happy to share this experience with her, as we all know that shared happiness is doubled happiness. This is especially true when it comes to food!

Back home I couldn't stop talking about the fact that I've finally found the best cookie in the world and found a few more fans among friends and colleagues. Some of them walking 15 blocks under pouring rain to bring a decent amount back home, just to enjoy them a little longer than a 5 day trip in NYC.

So what does all this have to do with my recipe, you may ask? Well... actually it's the root of it all. Since last September I've researched so much, compared numerous recipes and asked skilled fellow bakers what they think about my findings in order to create my own delicious recipe of chocolate chip walnut cookies. 

I always aim to recreate my culinary experiences, when it comes to travel recipes. I start with good research, and talk to people from the countries I visited before I start my testing process. For this recipe I stayed longer in the theoretical process than usual, but I am glad I did. It only took me one test run to get to the final recipe. And I am soooo happy with the result. 

For 15 cookies you'll need:

300g good quality dark chocolate chips

225g butter

240g walnuts

300g fine brown sugar

330g flour

2 large eggs

1,5 tsp fine sea salt

*****

In a large bowl, whisk together the butter and sugar. Gradually add the flour, then add the eggs one by one until the dough is well combined and starts sticking to the sides. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then fold in the nuts and chocolate chips. Whisk again until you get an even dough.

Flatten the dough, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for an hour. Divide the chilled dough into 15 equal portions (+/- 90g) and roll each of them into a ball. Refrigerate the balls for another 2 hours. 

Preheat the oven to 180° fan & line a sheet pan with parchment paper. 

Place 4 dough balls on the prepared sheet pan and bake for 18 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to let cool a little more. You can either enjoy them still warm or completely cooled down.

Enjoy!!!

Are you planning on making this recipe? Or have you already tried it?

Then show me your creations on Instagram: @passionmeetscreativity  I'm looking forward to your comments & suggestions :)