Add vanilla, flour and salt and mix until well combined.
Dump dough onto a lightly flour surface.
Roll dough out to 1/2 inch thick.
With a small biscuit cutter, cut out cookies and place on greased cookie sheet.
Bake at 350 degrees F 14-16 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cookies cool completely.
Melt caramel according to package directions. Spread over cooled cookies.
Let caramel cool completely before adding the chocolate.
In a small microwave safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening in 30 second increments, stirring in between each increment until melted and smooth.