Shortbread For Cut Out Cookies

Instructions

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

2. Add the salt and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mixing well and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

4. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a disk. Wrap the dough disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled dough disks to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough, then carefully transfer the cutouts to the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

7. If desired, you can embellish your cookies at this stage with sprinkles, colored sugar, or leave them plain for a more classic look.

8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown.

9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Repeat the rolling, cutting, and baking process with the remaining dough until all your shortbread cookies are baked and ready to enjoy!