Creating The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is straightforward if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy.
4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and nuts if using.
7. Scoop Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake Cookies: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Cool on Baking Sheet: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

By following these steps, you will create a batch of cookies that are sure to delight everyone!