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

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and any chopped nuts.

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop generous amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Sprinkle sea salt on top of the cookies before baking, if desired.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.