Prepare the Dough:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract for a touch of flavor.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Incorporate Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and cherry juice. The dough should come together but remain slightly crumbly.

Shape and Chill:

5. Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a sheet of parchment paper. Roll it into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter, or shape it into a flat disc for rolling out later.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

Bake the Cookies:

7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Slice or Shape: If you formed a log, slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch rounds. If using a disc, roll the dough out and use cookie cutters for festive shapes.
9. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorate and Serve:

11. Add Garnish (Optional): Drizzle with melted white chocolate and add holiday sprinkles for an extra festive touch.