Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Beat in the vanilla extract and the egg until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

If desired, fold in the chocolate chips or nuts.

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.