2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup white sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 package (small) vanilla instant pudding
2 eggs
2 packages (6 oz. each) chocolate chips
nuts (if desired)

Combine butter, the sugars, vanilla and pudding mix; beat until smooth and creamy. Beat in eggs. Gradually add flour and baking soda; stir in chocolate chips and nuts. Drop by rounded teaspoons about 2-inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

Variation: For chocolate chocolate chip cookies, use chocolate flavor instant pudding.