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

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

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

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

Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.

Using a large cookie scoop or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.