1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup cocoa powder
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In large bowl, beat butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Combine flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt; stir into the butter mixture until well blended.

Mix in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using). Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or just until set. Cool slightly on the cookie sheets before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Makes about 4 dozen.

Submitted by: Kristine McLaughlin