Basic Shortbread Cookies

This is from the 2005 Hallmark Christmas Cookie Book. The key to success with this thick shortbread is baking it slowly so that it doesn't brown.

• Ready In: 1 hr 8 mins
• Yields: 1 dozen

Ingredients

• 1  cup butter, softened
• 1⁄2 cup sugar
• 1⁄4 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1⁄8 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Beat butter at medium speed until creamy; gradually add sugar, beating well.
2. Stir in vanilla.
3. Combine flour and salt, gradually add to butter mixture, beating at low speed until blended.
4. Roll dough to 1/2 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
5. Cut with 2 1/2 inch round cutter or Christmas cookie cutter.
6. Place 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
7. Bake at 275 for 50 minutes, or until bottoms begin to brown. Cool 2 minutes on baking sheet; remove to wire rack to cool completely.