Creating the perfect chocolate chip cookie involves more than just mixing ingredients together. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated into the mixture.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, beating at low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to tough cookies.
5. Stir in Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center.
8. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 2 minutes. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.