Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still be slightly soft.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.