Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Add the all-purpose flour and mix until just combined. Blend in vanilla extract if using.

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in granulated sugar.

Place the dough balls on the baking sheets, leaving space between them. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.

Bake for 14-16 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft.

Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.