2 1/4 c. unsifted flour
1 c. butter, softened
3/4 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 (12 oz.) pkg. chocolate chips
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 c. sugar
1 pkg. vanilla instant pudding
2 eggs
1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Mix flour and baking soda. Combine butter, sugars, pudding mix, and vanilla in a large bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy. Beat in eggs. Gradually add flour mixture, then add chips and nuts (batter will be stiff).