1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest, minced
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Preheat oven to 350*F.
In a medium bowl, cream butter, 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest with an electric mixer. Mix in flour and blend until all ingredients are combined, about 2 minutes.
Divide dough in half and roll into two equal logs about 6-inches in length. Cover in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Unwrap dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Do not allow cookies to brown.
Makes 36 cookies.