Levain Bakery to Release 30th Anniversary Book Filled with Stories, Recipes & Cookie Love
The New York institution known for supernaturally thick cookies, Levain Bakery — which opened its first Los Angeles outpost in Larchmont Village — is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a new book tracing its journey from a small Upper West Side storefront to a nationally recognized brand.
Titled Levain Bakery: A Story of Friendship, Community, and Cookies, the book is co-authored by founders Pamela Weekes and Connie McDonald, along with writer Claudine Ko. It’s scheduled for release on October 14, 2025, and offers a blend of memoir, business reflection, and recipe collection.
The book delves into the story of how Weekes and McDonald turned a shared love of baking—and triathlon training—into a bakery that developed a cult following. Through archival photos, custom artwork, and personal essays, the book explores the highs and lows of running a growing business while staying rooted in friendship and community values.
In addition to their story, the book includes a selection of recipes, giving fans a rare chance to recreate some of Levain’s signature treats at home.
To celebrate the release, the founders will participate in a series of book signings and live conversations in several cities this fall. Ten percent of proceeds from the book will go to Hot Bread Kitchen, a nonprofit focused on culinary job training and economic empowerment.
The book is currently available for pre-order on Levain Bakery’s official website, where it’s also being sold as part of a limited-edition gift set that includes a box of their cookies.