Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
2. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until fully combined.
3. Gently fold in the diced apples.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggles when shaken. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Once chilled, drizzle the top with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.
2. Cut into bars and serve. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired.