1-First Step: Prepare mise en place Gather all ingredients. Soften butter to room temperature by leaving out 1 hour or microwaving 10 seconds. Unwrap 24 caramel candies. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Sift 2 1/4 cups flour, 3/4 cup cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt into a bowl. This prevents lumps for smooth dough. Measure 1 cup chocolate chips and set aside. Takes 10 minutes.

2-Second Step: Cream butter and sugars In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape sides often. This incorporates air for tender texture. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in 2 tsp vanilla extract. Batter looks glossy now, about 5 minutes total.

3-Third Step: Combine wet and dry ingredients Gently fold dry mixture into wet using a spatula or low-speed mixer. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft. Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips until just distributed. Dough will be thick and sticky. Cover and chill in fridge for 30 minutes. Chilling firms it up, prevents spreading. Meanwhile, rack position middle oven shelf.

4-Fourth Step: Shape the cookies Scoop 2-tablespoon mounds of dough, roll into balls. Flatten slightly, press one caramel candy into center. Mold dough around it completely, sealing edges. Place 2 inches apart on sheets. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. Repeat for all dough, makes 24. Pro tip: Wet hands ease rolling sticky dough.

5-Fifth Step: Bake to perfection Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Edges set but centers soft and puffed. Rotate sheets halfway for even browning. Cool on sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack. Caramel may ooze slightly, that's the charm of these dark chocolate caramel cookie recipe gems.

6-Final Step: Finishing touches and serving Let cool fully for 20 minutes to set caramel. Serve warm for molten centers or room temp. Pair with iced tea for busy parents or cocktails for party hosts. Store as below. Troubleshooting: Undercook 1 minute for gooier salted caramel dark chocolate cookies.