Cream:

3/4 c. or more butter, softened
3/8 c. sugar
3/4 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. salt
2 c. flour (work in)

If dough is crumbly mix in 1-2 tablespoons more butter. Roll dough 1/4 inch thick on floured board. Cut into shapes. Sprinkle with white or colored sugar, optional. Bake about 15 minutes on ungreased cookie sheet until set, not brown. Remove immediately from cookie sheet, 350 degrees.