2(8-ounce)packages cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2cupsugar
1teaspoonvanilla extract
2eggs
12pecan halves, plus 2 tablespoons chopped pecans
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
For the Graham Cracker Crust: In a small bowl, combine the crumbs, sugar, and butter. Press into a 9-inch pie plate evenly on the bottom and up the sides. Bake for 5 minutes and remove from oven.
For the filling:
Spoon 3/4 can apple pie filling into the crust. Add the remaining 1/4 can filling to a small saucepan (or just heat in the microwave) and mix with the caramel. Heat over low heat until melted and spreadable, about 1 minute.
Whip the cream cheese in a large bowl until fluffy. Add the sugar, vanilla and eggs and beat until smooth, a few seconds. Pour this over the pie filling.
Bake until the center of the cake is set, about 30 to 35 minutes. Cool to room temperature.
Spoon the apple-caramel mixture on top of the cheesecake and spread evenly. Decorate the edge of the cake with pecan halves if desired and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Best if chilled for a couple of hours or overnight.