Step 1

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla, beating until well combined, stopping to scrape down the bowl as needed.

Step 3

With the mixer on low speed, add in the flour mixture and beat until combined, stopping to scrape down the bowl at least once. Scoop the dough into small balls (about 2 tablespoons). If desired, roll the balls in additional brown sugar or decorating sugar. Chill the cookie dough balls for 1 hour.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 350F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 5

Place cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheets and bake, one sheet at a time, for 12 minutes or until just starting to turn brown on the edges and then the center doesn’t appear pale. Let cool for a few minutes on the pan then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.