Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add in the sugar and vanilla extract until well-combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition. Incorporate the sour cream and continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
In a separate bowl, mix the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread the apple mixture over the cheesecake filling.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. The center may still be slightly jiggly but will firm up as it cools.
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour before transferring to the fridge.
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake.