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

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add the softened cream cheese to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the caramel sauce and chocolate chips, if using.

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving.