Basic Cookie Recipe

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. In a large bowl or in a food mixer, cream the butter until soft. Add the sugar, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Sift in the flour, and spices, if using, or grated zest, if using, and bring the mixture together to form the dough. Using your hands, roll the dough into walnut-size balls, and place them slightly apart on an ungreased baking tray. Flatten the balls slightly with the back of a damp fork, and bake in the oven until they are light golden brown and slightly firm on top, about 13 to 15 minutes. Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool.