Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment.
Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
Cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, 2–3 minutes.
Beat in eggs and vanilla until smooth and combined.
Mix in dry ingredients on low just until no dry streaks remain.
Fold in chocolate chips and nuts if using.
Chill dough 20–30 minutes for thicker cookies (optional).
Scoop about 1.5 tbsp portions and space 2 inches apart on sheets.
Bake 10–12 minutes until edges set and centers look soft.
Cool 5 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a rack to finish cooling.