Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon or spatula to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until smooth.
Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
Prick each cookie a few times with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.