Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve cookies warm with a glass of milk or stack them on a platter, adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an elevated touch.