Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the dough layer.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top of the caramel layer, gently spreading it to cover as much as possible.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. Sprinkle with sea salt, if using.