Embark on a baking adventure with these step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step reminds me of the afternoons spent with my abuela, who taught me that patience in mixing leads to the perfect cookie texture.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as my grandmother would say, “Too much stirring steals the soul of the dough.”
5. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remember, the cookies will continue to cook as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a little soft when you take them out.
7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.