German Chocolate Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs

• 1/2 cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Layers:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted

• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

• 1 cup whipped cream

• 1/2 cup pecan halves

• Chocolate shavings or chunks

• Chocolate drizzle

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
   In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla and sour cream. Divide the batter into two portions. Stir the melted chocolate into one half.

3. Layer the Cheesecake:
   Spread the chocolate cheesecake layer over the crust. Then carefully spoon the plain cheesecake layer over the chocolate layer. Smooth the top.
   Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Chill completely in the fridge.

4. Prepare the Ganache:
   Heat the heavy cream until simmering. Pour over chocolate chips. Let sit 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Cool slightly.

5. Assemble:
   Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake. Pipe whipped cream around the edges. Decorate with pecan halves, chocolate shavings, and drizzle with extra chocolate.