In a large bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and vanilla (if using).
Stir in flour. If dough is too crumbly, add 1 tbsp more of softened butter.
Pack together and roll dough out on a floured surface. Roll to about ⅛ inch thick and use cookie cutter of choice.
Place cut outs on an ungreased, non-stick backing sheet, about ½ inch apart.
Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from baking sheet and place cookies on a wire cooling rack.
Notes
Be mindful that if you are using cookie cutters that are of different sizes, the smaller cut outs will bake faster and can potentially burn. Keep an eye on your cookies!