Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking dish, or line it with parchment paper.

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

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

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

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the dessert to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.