Granny Smith Coffeecake

8 ounces softened cream cheese
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
1/3 cup butter or margarine
2 eggs
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 3/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup milk
4 cups Granny Smith apples, pared, cored and sliced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, butter, eggs and almond extract; mix well.

Combine the 1 3/4 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; blend into cheese mixture alternately with milk. Pour into greased and floured 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.

Dip apples into lemon juice; toss with 2 tablespoons flour, 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon. Arrange apple slices on coffeecake. Bake at 350 degrees F for 50 to 60 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool slightly; serve warm.

Makes 12 to 14 servings.