Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
• In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and optional chopped walnuts with a spatula until evenly distributed.
• Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded 1.5-tablespoon portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set but still soft. Rotate pans halfway through baking for even browning.
• Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.