Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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

Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined.

If using, stir in the vanilla extract.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness, then cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.

Place the cut-out shapes onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.