Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Cream the softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy.

Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined.

Whisk the flour and salt together in a separate bowl, then gradually add to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Shape the dough into 1-inch balls or use a cookie press or cookie cutters.

Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges just begin to turn golden.

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.