Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together and is smooth.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it once or twice to bring it together.
Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Prick each cookie a few times with a fork to prevent puffing.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.