Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed light brown sugar until creamy. Add in the large eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a wooden spoon or spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is ample space between each cookie.

Step 6: Melt Caramel

In a small microwavable bowl, melt the unwrapped soft caramel candies together with the heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until the mixture is smooth.

Step 7: Create Wells for Caramel

Using your thumb, press a small well into the center of each cookie dough ball and fill with a small spoonful of the melted caramel.

Step 8: Add Sea Salt

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel-topped cookies for an enhanced flavor.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.