Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter with granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and combine until just incorporated, then gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and optional mini chocolate chips.

Scoop small portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls, placing them on ungreased baking sheets, spaced 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers remain soft.

Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.