Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the dry ingredients: Mix in the flour and salt. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it here as well. Stir until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes (squares, rectangles, or circles).
- Bake: Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the shortbread to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade shortbread!