Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Gradually beat in the flour mixture until well blended.
Stir in the Nestlé Tollhouse semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using.
Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into 24 bars.