Crumbl’s signature bright pink six-pack box contrasts with Levain’s classic blue four-pack with its signature cursive lettering.
The appeal of a warm, freshly baked cookie is undeniable, and both Crumbl and Levain have capitalized on this universal love for sweets. From taste to marketing, here’s a closer look at what sets them apart.
Nutritional Value & Taste
One of the most critical aspects of desserts is their nutritional value. Levain’s chocolate chip walnut cookie contains approximately 240 to 260 calories per serving, while Crumbl’s cookies range from 700 to 800 calories per serving, making Levain the lower-calorie option. Taste-wise, both these chocolate chip cookies were enjoyable. The Levain chocolate chip walnut cookie was soft, and the chocolate melted in our mouths, blending with the hint of walnut.
“I like Levain because it feels like you’re not eating a lot of calories, while Crumbl feels too sugary and strong,” said Maria Bezerra (11).
They were sweet but not too much—just the right balance to enjoy every bite fully. Similarly, Crumbl’s chocolate chip cookies have a unique flavor that stands out; their cookies are soft and enjoyable, though it can be a bit sweeter at times.
Price
When comparing two bakeries, it’s important to consider not just the quality and taste but the pricing. A 4-pack from Crumbl costs $15.99, whereas the same pack from Levain costs $29. This comparison makes Crumbl the more budget-friendly option. Additionally, Crumbl offers a rotating selection of unique flavors, providing a fun experience for cookie lovers. In contrast, Levain is known for its large, dense cookies that some may prefer, despite the higher price. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you want variety and affordability or rich indulgence.
“They are both expensive, but Levain is definitely more costly. I think Levain cookies are worth the money,” said Bezerra.
Marketing
While Crumbl’s signature pink branding is instantly recognizable, Levain’s blue and white aesthetic offers a more classic appeal. Crumbl stands out with their bright pink rectangular boxes ready for pick-up. On Sundays, eager sweet treat fans stock the website or app to find out the new flavors of the week. What exactly does this mean? Crumbl is based on a rotating menu, so every week eight new cookie flavors are available in Crumbl stores nationwide.
Business teacher and marketing expert Jason Dinter explains how Crumbl sticks out to him from a visual marketing perspective. “They truly make it personal by mouthwatering visuals, a rotating menu where people have FOMO as the new flavors can disappear quickly, hyping up the cookie culture with countdowns to new flavors, and influencers and customers sharing their experience,” said Dinter.
In a similar fashion, Levain’s blue and white branding reflects its classic aesthetic. Their boxes reflect their French and very classic signature. While Crumbl offers new flavors each week, Levain has a set menu of nine flavors. They utilize social media to advertise their baked goods, with a reputation of being more of a luxury than a dessert.
Dinter captured this idea of a luxury saying, “Think of it like you are going on a roller coaster (but with flavor), and you are buckled into extreme taste. Just before you take that bite, you know you are about to ‘enjoy your ride’.”
History
Both bakeries have a rich history. Crumbl, a fast-growing chain, was founded in 2017 by cousins Jason McGowan and Sawyer Hemsley, who aimed to create the “perfect chocolate chip cookie”. Levain, in contrast, was founded by friends Pam Weekes and Connie McDonald. Unlike Crumbl, which was designed as a cookie brand from the start, Levain’s signature cookie was created by a happy accident when the founders, originally focused on baking bread, needed an energy-boosting snack for triathlon training.
These chains offer unique cookie experiences that cater to everyone’s preferences and budgets. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual tastes, whether you prioritize a wider selection and lower prices, or are drawn to heavier, dense cookies. Regardless of your choice, both bakeries remind us of the joy that a freshly baked cookie can bring, creating delightful moments that linger long after the last bite.
