In a medium saucepan, combine the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat over low flame and stir consistently for several minutes until the chocolate has fully melted and the mixture achieves a silky-smooth consistency.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Gently fold in the caramel sauce, measured sea salt, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated and evenly blended.
Allow the chocolate-caramel mixture to cool down to room temperature. Then, place the saucepan in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes, or until the mixture becomes firm enough to shape into balls.
Once chilled, use a small ice cream scoop or your hands to scoop out portions and roll them into small balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter.
Choose your coating! Roll each truffle in crushed nuts, or dust them lightly with cocoa powder. Leave some plain if you prefer a classic finish—they're delicious either way!
Place the coated truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt atop each truffle to enhance flavor and texture.
Return the truffles to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least another 30 minutes to firm up fully before serving.
Notes
For an extra element of visual appeal, drizzle a touch of caramel sauce over the truffles before serving.