Creating these Butter Pecan Cookies is easy if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy and smooth.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until mixed.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips, if using, until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop Cookie Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These steps will guide you in creating buttery, crunchy cookies that are sure to impress everyone around you!