Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Fold in chocolate chips and caramel bits evenly throughout the dough.
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
Scoop cookie dough into 2-tablespoon balls and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Sprinkle sea salt over the tops of the dough balls if desired.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.