Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
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 a few times to bring it together.
Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into desired shapes and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.