Step 1

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan. This will prepare your pan for the graham cracker crust.

Step 2

In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.

Step 3

For the chocolate layer, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips and let it sit for about 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and spread this luscious chocolate mixture over the cooled crust. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 4

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour this creamy filling over the chilled chocolate layer.

Step 5

Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6

For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until it simmers, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2 minutes and stir until smooth. Pour this ganache over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly. Let it chill for another 30 minutes before serving.