Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Careful not to overmix. Stir in the vanilla until combined.

Step 3

In a small bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt. Add to butter and sugar mixture just 1/2 cup at a time, beating until combined.

Step 4

Use a teaspoon measure to evenly portion cookie two teaspoon sized portions of dough onto the parchment lined baking sheet (it's okay if it's not exactly 2 teaspoons). Roll each dough piece into a ball. Space cookies two inches apart. Bake on the middle oven rack until edges are golden brown, 11-13 minutes. Yields 2 dozen cookies. They will firm up a lot as they sit.

Step 5

Store in a closed container for 3-4 days at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months.