Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13x9 inch baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and creamy.

Add the vanilla extract, salt, and desired amount of pink or red food coloring to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined and the color is uniform.

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll it between your hands to form a smooth ball. Place the dough balls approximately 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Using the bottom of a glass or the palm of your hand, gently flatten each cookie dough ball to a ½ inch thickness.

Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly set. The cookies should not brown significantly.

Immediately upon removing from the oven, generously sprinkle the warm cookies with granulated sugar.

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for storage.