Step 1

In a large bowl combine the flour and brown sugar. Cut the butter into the flour mixture with a pastry blender until crumbly.

Step 2

2.Press the crumbs onto the bottom of a 13x9 inch baking pan lined with double thick foil ( I just doubled regular foil). Bake 15 minutes at 350 degrees or until light brown.

Step 3

In a large bowl beat the cream cheese and 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla, mix until incorporated. Pour cream cheese mixture over warm crust.

Step 4

In a medium size bowl combine the finely chopped apples with 2 Tablespoons sugar, the cinnamon and nutmeg. Spoon evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Step 5

In a medium bowl combine all the streusel ingredients, mix them together until crumbly ,sprinkle evenly over the apple layer. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until filling is set. Cool completely. Refrigerating the bars will make them easier to cut when served.

Step 6

Drizzle with caramel topping if desired or serve with ice cream.