Warm the base: Add the half-and-half and heavy cream to a small saucepan.
Heat over medium-low until warm and steamy, not boiling.
Whisk in caramel: Add the caramel sauce and whisk until fully melted and smooth. Keep the heat gentle to prevent scorching.
Sweeten and season: Stir in the maple syrup (or sugar) and the sea salt. Taste and adjust sweetness gradually.
Add vanilla off heat: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Vanilla stays brighter when added at the end.
Cool it down: Let the mixture cool for 15–20 minutes. It will thicken slightly as it cools.
Bottle and chill: Pour into a clean, airtight jar or bottle. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before using for best texture.
Serve: Shake before each use.
Start with 1–2 tablespoons per cup of coffee and adjust to taste.