Place the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, and the colors are pale.
1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup light brown sugar
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in vanilla extract until evenly combined. The mixture should appear glossy and slightly thickened.
2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding in with a spatula, until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 0.5 teaspoon salt
Fold in the chocolate chips evenly into the dough using a silicone spatula, ensuring distribution throughout the mixture.
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges and the centers look set but still soft. Once done, remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.