Cardamom Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons ground cardamom, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup quick-cooking oats
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup cold butter
1/3 cup sliced almonds

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press onto the bottom of a greased 9-in. square baking pan. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, 1 teaspoon cardamom and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Pour over crust.
2. In a small bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar and remaining cardamom. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in almonds. Sprinkle over top.
3. Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until center is almost set and topping is golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Cut into 16 bars.