Here’s how you can bring these cookies to life in your own kitchen:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step reminds me of the meticulous preparations Nonna Rosa made, ensuring everything was just right.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 3-4 minutes. This was always my favorite part, watching the transformation happen.
3. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated. I would often sneak a taste, savoring the rich, sugary goodness.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined. Remember to embrace the flour clouds—it’s part of the fun!
5. Using a tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. I love how imperfectly perfect each cookie looks.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The house will fill with an aroma that transports me straight back to my childhood kitchen.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.