Heat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Whisk flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and fine salt in a bowl; set aside.
Cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth and glossy.
Mix in dry ingredients on low until just combined and no dry streaks remain.
Fold in chopped caramels. Chill the dough 10 minutes if warm or sticky.
Scoop about 1½ tablespoons dough per cookie onto sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Sprinkle lightly with flaky salt.
Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers look just set.
Cool on the sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Add another tiny pinch of salt if desired.
Notes
Variation: Drizzle cooled cookies with quick caramel (melt soft caramels with a splash of cream) or add a handful of chopped dark chocolate to the dough. Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or freeze up to 2 months.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Salted Caramel Cookies flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.