Creating Classic Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delicious cookies in no time:

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agent.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Ensure everything is well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until blended. Avoid overmixing to maintain the cookies’ chewy texture.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts, if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Scoop and Bake: Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are slightly soft.
8. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Following these steps will yield a batch of amazing cookies that will delight everyone who tries them!