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

1. Preheat the 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 mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips if using.
7. Scoop Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool on Wire Rack: 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 these incredible cookies effortlessly.