Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed 2–3 minutes.
Beat in egg and vanilla until fully combined.
Whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt separately. Add to wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
Fold in diced apple and caramel chunks until evenly distributed.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough into 1½ tbsp portions on a parchment-lined sheet, 2 inches apart.
Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are golden and centers look slightly soft.
Cool on pan 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.