Prepare the Cookie Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the Sugars: Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter and peanut butter mixture, and beat until fluffy and light.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies soft and tender.

Shape and Bake the Cookies:

7. Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
8. Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie for a sweet and salty combination. You can also press a few mini chocolate chips into the center of each cookie for added flavor.
9. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and the cookies appear set in the center.
10. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cut and Serve:

11. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cookies have cooled completely, arrange them on a plate and serve them with a glass of milk, tea, or coffee. They make for a perfect treat for any occasion!