Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
03 - 1 cup butter, softened

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
05 - 3/4 cup sugar
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Apples

08 - 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 3 cups)
09 - 2 tablespoons sugar
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

→ Streusel Topping

12 - 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
13 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
14 - 1/2 cup quick cooking oats
15 - 1/2 cup butter, softened

→ Drizzle

16 - 1/2 cup caramel topping for drizzling after baked

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in butter using a pastry blender, food processor, or two forks until mixture is crumbly. Press evenly into a greased or lined 9x13 baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
02 - In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar using an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Pour the mixture over the warm crust.
03 - In a small bowl, mix chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Distribute evenly over the cheesecake layer.
04 - In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, oats, and butter. Use clean hands to thoroughly integrate the butter into the mixture. Do not use a food processor for this step.
05 - Sprinkle streusel topping over the apple layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature.
06 - Drizzle caramel topping over the cooled bars. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 4 months. Serve cold and enjoy.

# Notes:

01 - Sterilize the baking pan before use to ensure hygienic preparation.