Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend them until the mixture is light, airy, and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies will have the melt-in-your-mouth texture they’re famous for.

Mix in the vanilla extract and a single large egg yolk. The vanilla adds a comforting warmth, while the yolk enriches the dough with a silky consistency that holds its shape during baking.

Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, blending on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Avoid overmixing—stop as soon as the dough forms a cohesive ball.

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is crucial as it solidifies the butter, ensuring your cookies retain their shape and don’t spread excessively while baking.

Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite Christmas-themed cookie cutters to stamp out festive shapes. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a small gap between each cookie.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn a light golden brown. The key is to avoid overbaking, as this can rob the cookies of their soft, buttery center.

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, the decorating fun begins! Whether it’s a drizzle of icing, a shower of festive sprinkles, or edible glitter, let your creativity flow.