Creating delicious shortbread cookies is a breeze if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Vanilla: If desired, mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
5. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour in the fridge.
7. Roll Out Dough: Turn the chilled dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness.
8. Cut Cookies: Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If you like, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

With these steps completed, you’ll have a batch of delectable shortbread cookies ready to enjoy!