Butter Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional for flavor)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars:
   In a large bowl, beat the butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and creamy (2-3 minutes). Add vanilla if using.
3. Mix in Flour and Salt:
   Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Option 1: Roll dough into a log, wrap in plastic, chill 30 minutes, and slice into rounds.
   • Option 2: Roll out dough 1/2-inch thick and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
   • Option 3: Press dough into a square pan and cut into rectangles after baking.
5. Chill (optional but helpful):
   Chill shaped cookies for 10–15 minutes to help maintain shape during baking.
6. Bake:
   Bake for 14–18 minutes, until edges are just lightly golden (not brown).
7. Cool:
   Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.