Creating the best Chocolate Chip Cookies is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for delicious results:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth.
4. Add Vanilla and Eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, ensuring everything is well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips (and nuts, if using) until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy warm, gooey Chocolate Chip Cookies that will delight your taste buds!