Creating Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is a breeze with these clear steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Carefully fold in the chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries, along with nuts if using.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
9. Once cooled, if desired, cut into squares or rectangles and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and enjoy these amazing cookie bars!