Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Observe the pale color and slightly increased volume as signs of proper creaming.
Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix again until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if necessary.
Gradually add the flour to the mixture, mixing on low speed or stirring with a spatula until just combined. The dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it with a spatula or the back of a spoon. The surface should be smooth with a few small cracks visible.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top has a slight sheen. You should see the crust set and the edges crisp up while the center remains soft.
