Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup packed brown sugar with 1 cup drained crushed pineapple. This mixture will give the cookies their signature caramelized pineapple topping.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop cookie dough rounds onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently press about a teaspoon of the pineapple and brown sugar mixture onto the top of each dough ball. Place a maraschino cherry on top of each mound for that classic look.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookie tops have caramelized slightly. The pineapple topping will bubble and look sticky—this is exactly what you want.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. This helps the topping set and prevents it from sliding off.