Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.