1️⃣ Prepare the Dough
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
• Cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.

2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Swirl
• In a small bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 2 tbsp granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
• Gently fold in the cherry pie filling. Avoid overmixing to preserve cherry streaks.

3️⃣ Assemble the Cookies
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Scoop 1½ tbsp of chilled dough onto baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
• Press an indentation into the center of each dough ball.
• Fill each with ½ tsp of cheesecake-cherry mixture and gently swirl with a toothpick.

4️⃣ Bake the Cookies
• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just golden and centers are set.
• Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.