Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using, ensuring they're evenly distributed in the dough.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, but the centers look slightly underbaked (they will continue to cook on the baking sheet).
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Stack the cookies on a decorative plate and dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch. Serve alongside a glass of cold milk for the classic experience!