Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Fold in Add-Ins

1. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, chopped maraschino cherries, and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
3. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the cookies warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container for several days.