1. Make the apple topping: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes, until the apples are just tender and the juices are thick and glossy. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the oven and pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F or 175°C. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for 2 to 3 minutes, until light and creamy.

4. Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly blended.

6. Make the dough: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed just until a soft dough forms and no dry flour remains. Do not overmix.

7. Scoop the cookies: Using a medium cookie scoop or heaping tablespoon, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each mound about 2 inches apart.

8. Indent and top with apples: Gently flatten each mound of dough and press a shallow indentation in the center. Spoon a small amount of the cooled apple topping into each indentation, pressing lightly so it sits neatly on top of the dough.

9. Bake: Bake one sheet at a time for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look just slightly underbaked. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Make the caramel drizzle: In a small saucepan or microwave safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Heat over low heat or in 20 to 30 second microwave bursts, stirring often, until completely melted and smooth.

11. Drizzle and serve: Drizzle the warm caramel over the cooled cookies. Let the caramel set for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.