Step 1: Get the Cookie Dough Ready: In your biggest mixing bowl, cream together that softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat it until it's light and fluffy. Crack in those eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet ingredients, mixing just until they're combined. Don't overmix! If you're using white chocolate chips, fold them in now. Pop this dough into the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prep the Cherry Filling: While the dough is chilling, grab a small bowl. If you're using cornstarch to thicken your filling, stir it into the cherry pie filling now. Otherwise, just have your delicious filling ready to go.
Step 3: Assemble Those Beauties: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take about 2 tablespoons of your chilled cookie dough and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Spoon a bit of that prepared cherry filling into the center. Gently fold the edges of the dough up and over the filling, pinching and sealing it completely so the filling is fully enclosed. Roll it gently in your hands to make a nice ball. Place it on your prepared baking sheet, giving each cookie about 2 inches of space to spread. Repeat until you've used up all your dough and filling.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies: Slide that baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. You're looking for the edges to be lightly golden brown. Don't worry if the centers look a little soft – they will firm up as they cool.
Step 5: Cool Down: Once they're out of the oven, let those amazing cookies sit on the hot baking sheet for just a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve It Up: Once they're cooled, give them a little dusting of powdered sugar if you like that pretty finish! Now, bite in and prepare for pure happiness.