Apple Cheesecake Danish Bars

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and salt for the crust. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water and mix until a dough forms. Press this dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust in the baking pan.
4. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Allow the apples to cool slightly, then spread them over the cheesecake layer.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the cheesecake is set.
6. If desired, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the bars after they have cooled slightly.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for a few hours to chill and set the cheesecake layer.
8. Once fully chilled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy your Apple Cheesecake Danish Bars!

These bars are a wonderful combination of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.