Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugars with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the salt, vanilla extract, and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Combine Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips with a spatula or wooden spoon.
Shape the Cookies:
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly with your hands.
Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve:
- Enjoy your freshly baked chocolate chip cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.

For chewier cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or other mix-ins to customize your cookies.