Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup (130 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest or orange zest (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt.
  5. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter mixture until just combined.
  6. If using, fold in optional flavor additions like zest or chocolate chips.
  7. Transfer the dough into a piping bag and pipe 2-inch squares onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool completely on a cooling rack.