Shortbread

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 375F.
2. 2
   Blend together butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt in a bowl with a fork until combined well.
3. 3
   Sift flour into butter mixture and blend with fork until mixture forms a soft dough.
4. 4
   Transfer dough to an ungreased large baking sheet and pat into a 9- by 4 1/2-inch rectangle.
5. 5
   Crimp edges decoratively and prick dough all over with tines of a fork.
6. 6
   Score dough crosswise with the back of a knife into 8 sections.
7. 7
   If desired, sprinkle with chopped toasted nuts and press gently into dough with your fingertips.
8. 8
   Bake shortbread in middle of oven until edges are golden, about 15 minutes.
9. 9
   Cool shortbread on baking sheet on a rack 10 minutes, then cut into slices (while still warm) with a sharp knife.
10. 10
    Transfer slices with a spatula to rack to cool completely.