Creating Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars is a straightforward process when following these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating until just combined.
5. Spread the Filling: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing it out into an even layer.
6. Prepare the Apple Topping: In a separate bowl, toss together the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until the apples are well-coated.
7. Layer the Apples: Distribute the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer evenly.
8. Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the apples are tender. The edges may slightly crack, which is normal.
9. Cool the Bars: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, transfer to the refrigerator for at least 1.5 hours to chill and set completely.
10. Add Caramel Drizzle: Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cooled cheesecake bars for an extra touch of sweetness.
11. Cut into Bars: Once set, cut into squares and serve with any remaining caramel on the side for drizzling.