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

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until combined.

Cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Fold in the caramel chips and optional chocolate chips until evenly dispersed.

Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced at least 2 inches apart.

Sprinkle each dough ball with a pinch of flaky sea salt before baking.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden, but centers remain soft.

Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.