Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape into a ball.
Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.