Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

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

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Follow this with the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture, stirring until just combined.

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using.

Drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown.

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