1/2 c. butter
1 1/4 c. sifted all purpose flour
1/3 c. granulated sugar
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract

FILLING:

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
2 eggs
1/4 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla

TOPPING:

1/3 c. granulated sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. sliced almonds
1/2 c. apricot preserves
2 tbsp. water

To make crust: In mixing bowl, place butter, flour, sugar and vanilla; mix on medium speed of electric mixer, until blended. Pat into the bottom and up sides of a 9-inch springform pan. You may find a floured drinking glass rolled on its side an easy "rolling pin" to help distribute the crust. Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 5 minutes, remove and allow to cool about 5 minutes.

To make filling: In bowl, place cream cheese, eggs, sugar and vanilla and mix well. Pour into the partially-cooled crust. Toss the apple slices in the granulated sugar and cinnamon, then place on the cream cheese filling.

Top with the sliced almonds. Bake in a 400 degree oven for about 25 minutes or until apples are done. Cool. When cake is cool, melt preserves (apricot) with a little water and then brush top of torte to give a high glaze.