Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Position the oven rack in center of oven. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper; set aside.

Chop ½ cup of macadamia nuts; set aside.

Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. In a food processor, combine melted butter and remaining macadamia nuts. Process until the mixture forms a lumpy paste; set aside.

In a medium bowl, cream the remaining six tablespoons of butter.

Beat in sugars, egg, and vanilla. Continue to beat until light and fluffy.

Beat in the macadamia nut paste.

Add flour, baking soda, and salt and mix until combined.

Stir in vanilla chips and the remaining 1/2 cup macadamia nuts.