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

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually integrate this into the wet mixture.

Fold in the dark chocolate chips and any optional mix-ins like crushed candy canes.

Scoop the dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft.

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely and drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired.