Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar for about 3-5 minutes.

Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the mixture and mix on low speed until fully incorporated.

Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.

Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

After chilling, slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the top of each cookie before baking.

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes until golden around the edges while still pale in the center.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.