Creating the perfect salted caramel cookies can be straightforward by following these succinct steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and sea salt until well blended.
5. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra layer of deliciousness.
7. Chill the Dough: For best texture, cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
8. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each scoop.
9. Add Caramel: Using your finger or a small spoon, create an indentation in the center of each dough ball. Fill with a small amount of salted caramel sauce.
10. Sprinkle with Sea Salt: Lightly sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each filled cookie dough ball.
11. Bake: Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
12. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

These straightforward steps will guide you in creating the most delightful salted caramel cookies. Enjoy the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen, which is just a precursor to the deliciousness awaiting you!