Butter Cookies

2 cups plus 2 tbsp cake flour
½ tsp salt
½ lb butter (2 sticks), softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla

Sift together flour and salt on sheet of waxed paper.

Beat butter on high for about 5 minutes, or until pale yellow and fluffy. Add sugar and beat on medium high speed until mixture is very pale and very light, another 2-3 minutes. Scrape down bowl and add egg yolks and vanilla. Beat for 30 seconds or until incorporated. Add the flour and beat slowly at first for about 20 seconds.

Shape cookies for thumbprints, sandwiches, rolled or dropped. Bake at 350 degrees for 7-15 minutes.