Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¾ cup brown sugar for about 3-4 minutes until fluffy.

Add in 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined.

Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of chocolate chips and optional nuts if desired.

Drop rounded mounds of dough onto the baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden brown and centers look slightly underbaked.

Let cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.