BEST CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 cup packed light-brown sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

2 large eggs

2 cups semisweet and/or milk chocolate chips (whatever ratio you prefer)

1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, using a mixer, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until creamy and well combined.

Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix; it’s okay if there are a few streaks of flour remaining.

Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Form Cookie Dough Balls: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets …