Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.

Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.