Chocolate Chip Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  1 teaspoon baking soda
  1 teaspoon salt
  1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
  3/4 cup granulated sugar
  3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  2 large eggs
  2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
  1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• PREHEAT oven to 375° F.
• COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in chips and nuts, if using. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets. 

BAKE for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.