Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

While the crust is baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream in a large bowl until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until combined. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon juice, if using.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Apple Layer

In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Once the crust is cooled slightly, pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust. Next, layer the cinnamon apples evenly over the crust.

Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping

In a bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work in the cold butter until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apples.

Step 6: Bake

Place baking dish on a large sheet pan. This will prevent the cheesecake mixture from spilling over into the oven while baking. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the edges are set and the topping is golden. The center may still have a slight jiggle, but it will firm up as it cools. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once the bars are cooled, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. When you are ready to serve, lift the cheesecake bars out of the baking dish and cut into two inch squares. Heat the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave and drizzle individually over the cheesecake squares.