Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy (about 1-2 minutes).
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined (do not overmix).
  6. Gently fold in the chocolate chips (and nuts if using) using a rubber spatula.
  7. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance flavors and prevent spreading during baking.
  8. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined cookie sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown around the edges.
  9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.