Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips if you’re using them.
4. Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Flatten the Dough: Use a fork to gently press the dough balls down, creating a criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie.

Bake the Cookies

1. Bake: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
2. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.