01 -
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
02 -
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
03 -
Add egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture; blend until smooth.
04 -
Gradually add all-purpose flour on low speed, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
05 -
Transfer half of the dough into a piping bag and pipe desired cookie shapes onto an ungreased baking sheet.
06 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are just golden.
07 -
Remove cookies from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 -
If desired, melt dark chocolate chips with vegetable shortening in short microwave bursts. Dip cooled cookies halfway into melted chocolate and set on parchment until firm.