Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

Directions

1. Step 1
   Preheat the oven to 350°F while preparing the crust.

2. Step 2
   Crush cookies or graham crackers with a food processor and place in a medium bowl. Melt 3 Tablespoons butter and use a fork to incorporate into the crushed cookies or graham crackers. Firmly press the cookie mixture into a 9x13 pan. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes.

3. Step 3
   While the crust is baking, combine the cream cheese and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add the eggs and vanilla at beat until smooth.

4. Step 4
   Spread the LUCKY LEAF Premium Apple Pie Filling over the baked curst. Pour cream cheese mixture on top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set.

5. Step 5
   Prepare the caramel topping only after the cheesecake is out of the oven. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup and butter to a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture is slightly boiling. Allow to boil for 1 minute without stirring.

6. Step 6
   Turn off the heat and immediately whisk in the salt and baking soda. Carefully pour the caramel topping over the cheesecake. Top with chopped walnuts. Cut into bars as desired.