Preheat the oven:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Mix the wet ingredients:
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Combine the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips (and nuts, if using):
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and optional chopped nuts.

Scoop and shape the dough:
Scoop dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, rolling them into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are slightly soft. Keep an eye on them — they’ll continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven.

Cool:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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