Preheat oven to 350. Cream butter and sugar for about 2 minutes. Add vanilla and eggs. In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients. Gradually add dry ingredients to sugar mixture, taking care not to overmix. Stir in chocolate chips.

Using an ice cream scoop, scoop dough onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment or a silpat, placing 3-4 inches apart. Bake 12-16 minutes or until center is set and edges are golden. Allow to cool on pan for 1-2 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

Yields 18 large cookies.