3 c. all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla

This basic dough is easy to work with and doesn't need to be chilled before rolling.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and set aside. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in vanilla. Gradually stir in dry ingredients into creamed mixture, blending well. Roll all parts of dough on lightly floured surface to 1/4" thickness. Cut with open and floured cookie cutter. Place on greased cookie sheets. Bake in 350 degree oven until golden brown. Remove from baking sheets and cool on racks.