Step 1

Cream butter or margarine and sugar in large mixer bowl.

Step 2

Add eggs and vanilla; blend well.

Step 3

Combine flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt: blend into creamed mixture.

Step 4

Stir in nuts, if desired.

Step 5

Drop by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet.

Step 6

Bake at 350 (F) for 8 to 9 minutes. (Do not overbake. Cookies will be soft. They will puff during baking, flatten upon cooling.)

Step 7

Cool on cookie sheet until set, about 1 minute: remove to wire rack to cool completely.