World’s Best Butter Cookies: A Melting Delight

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the salt, pure vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Mix until well combined.
Incorporate the Flour:

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to fully combine the dough if it becomes too thick to mix with a spoon.
Shape the Cookies:

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
If you like, you can flatten the dough balls slightly with the back of a fork or your fingers to give them a more traditional look.
Bake the Cookies:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. The center should still be soft.
Cool the Cookies:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips