PREHEAT THE OVEN: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
CREAM THE BUTTER AND SUGARS: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light in color and fluffy in texture, about 2 to 3 minutes.
ADD EGGS AND FLAVORINGS: Mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and espresso powder until fully incorporated and smooth.
COMBINE DRY INGREDIENTS: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
MIX WET AND DRY INGREDIENTS: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft cookie texture.
FOLD IN CHOCOLATE CHIPS: If using chocolate chips, fold them into the dough until evenly distributed. The dough will be soft but easy to scoop.
SHAPE THE COOKIES: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. For a decorative touch, press a whole roasted coffee bean into the center of each dough ball if desired.
BAKE: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers appear slightly underbaked. They will finish cooking as they cool on the baking sheet.
COOL: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up without becoming dry.