Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly dough forms.
4. Press into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Make the Cheesecake

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
3. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.

Make the Caramel Apple Topping

1. Melt caramel sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
2. Arrange sliced apples on top of cooled cheesecake.
3. Drizzle melted caramel sauce over apples.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans, if desired.

Notes

• Allow cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Cut into bars and serve chilled.
• Optional: sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.