Single Levain Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Introduction
This single levain chocolate chip cookie recipe yields a soft, chewy treat with just the right balance of sweetness and crunch. Perfect for when you want a fresh homemade cookie without making a whole batch.

Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted, softened)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/8 tsp baking soda
- 1/8 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp walnuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Add the vanilla extract and egg yolk to the butter mixture and mix well to combine.
- Step 4: Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt until the flour mixture disappears. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Step 5: Roll the cookie dough into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. You can top it with additional chocolate chips if you like.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 14 minutes. Once done, let the cookie cool on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes before enjoying.
Tips & Variations
- For extra chewiness, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Swap walnuts for pecans or omit nuts entirely if preferred.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.
Storage
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, add a slice of bread to the container. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a warm, fresh-baked feel.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, either salted or unsalted butter works fine. If using salted butter, you might want to reduce the added salt slightly.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
Cornstarch helps keep the cookie tender and soft. You can omit it, but your cookies will be slightly less tender and may have a different texture.
Print
Single Levain Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 1 large cookie or 2 small cookies 1x
Description
This Single Levain Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe is a delightful treat designed for those craving a perfectly soft, chewy, and rich cookie made with a small batch of ingredients. Featuring a blend of brown and granulated sugar, cornstarch for softness, and a mix of chocolate chips and walnuts, these cookies bake up with a tender crumb and a deliciously gooey center. Ideal for a quick homemade indulgence without the fuss of a large batch.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 3 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted, softened)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/8 tsp baking soda
- 1/8 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring even sweetness and texture.
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract and egg yolk thoroughly to bind the dough and add flavor.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt until the flour mixture is fully combined and no dry patches remain. Then gently fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
- Shape and bake: Roll the cookie dough into a ball or your preferred shape. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for an added chocolatey touch. Bake in the preheated oven for 14 minutes until the cookies are golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Cool and enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time lets them set properly while maintaining a chewy, tender texture. Enjoy your fresh, single-serving chocolate chip cookie!
Notes
- For softer cookies, do not overbake; remove from oven once edges are golden and centers appear slightly undercooked.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or omitted for nut-free version.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking can help control spread for thicker cookies.
- Adjust sugar quantities slightly if you prefer sweeter or less sweet cookies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: single levain chocolate chip cookie, soft chocolate chip cookie, small batch cookie, easy dessert, walnut chocolate chip cookie

