Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cookies and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes while preparing the next layer.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Spread this cream cheese layer evenly over the chilled cookie crust. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill for another 30 minutes.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the diced apples with ground cinnamon and optional granulated sugar, tossing to coat evenly.
Step 5: Carefully spread the spiced diced apples over the cream cheese layer.
Step 6: Spread the remaining whipped topping gently over the apple layer.
Step 7: Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the whipped topping. If desired, sprinkle with sea salt flakes or chopped pecans.
Step 8: Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow all the layers to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. Slice and serve chilled.