Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of kosher salt, then gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until just combined.

Transfer the crumbly dough into the lined baking pan and press it evenly, smoothing the top gently.

Dock the surface by pricking it about 36 times with a fork, then chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or in the freezer for 15 minutes.

After chilling, bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the edges are light golden brown.

Remove from the oven, cool for 5 minutes, then slice into rectangles while still warm.

Let cool completely in the pan, then transfer to a serving plate.