Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.

Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.