Measure all ingredients accurately to ensure the best results. Keep them within reach as you begin the baking process.

In a mixing bowl, add the unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer or a wooden spoon, cream the mixture together until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Mix in the vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and salt. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing.

Lightly flour your work surface, then split the dough into two equal parts for easier handling. With a rolling pin, flatten one part of the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. If you like, mix in food coloring with the other part until the color is even.

Use cookie cutters to shape the rolled-out dough, selecting designs inspired by "Spirited Away" themes and characters. Arrange the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring there's space between each one.

To help maintain their shape, chill the cookies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After chilling, bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden color. Watch them closely to prevent overbaking.

Take the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes before moving them to cool all the way. Once they are cool, have fun. Decorate your cookies with icing, sprinkles, or edible markers to make your Spirited Away designs come alive.