Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
Make the Cookie Dough:
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Bake the First Layer:
Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and set aside.
Prepare the Caramel Layer:
In a double boiler, melt the caramels and evaporated milk, stirring occasionally until smooth.
Stir in the peanut butter and mix thoroughly.
Assemble the Bars:
Spread the melted caramel mixture over the baked cookie base.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer.
Bake the Bars:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.