Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in caramel bits or chopped caramels.

Shape the Cookies:

1. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form dough balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each).
2. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.

Bake the Cookies:

1. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain slightly soft.
2. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
3. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.