Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Cover and freeze for about 30 minutes until firm.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly.
Place a small dollop of frozen cheesecake filling in the center, then cover with another scoop of cookie dough.
Gently seal the edges and roll into a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Arrange the cookies on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown around the edges.
Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cooled cookies.
Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel touch.
Let the cookies set for a few minutes, then enjoy the gooey, cheesecake-filled delight!