Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Dessert (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or chocolate wafer cookies
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ For the cheesecake filling

04 - 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 1/2 cup sour cream
09 - 1/4 cup heavy cream

→ For the chocolate ganache

10 - 1 cup heavy cream
11 - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

→ For the strawberry topping

12 - 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
13 - 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in melted butter until evenly mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, remove and let cool.
02 - In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth. Pour batter over the cooled crust.
03 - Bake the cheesecake for 55-60 minutes at 325°F (163°C) until edges are set but center remains slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually. Remove, let cool completely at room temperature, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
04 - Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Once cooled slightly, spread over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
05 - Slice strawberries and, if desired, heat strawberry jam until liquid. Brush jam over sliced strawberries for a glossy finish.
06 - Once ganache has set, arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake in your preferred design. Serve chilled and enjoy.

# Notes:

01 - Make-Ahead: This cheesecake is ideal for preparing a day in advance as it requires hours to set.
02 - Crust Variations: Substitute graham crackers with chocolate wafer cookies or enhance flavor with a pinch of cocoa powder.
03 - Cheesecake Texture: Ensure cream cheese is softened fully for a smoother result, and avoid overmixing the batter.
04 - Strawberry Substitutes: Raspberries or blueberries may replace strawberries, but the dessert's classic flavor shines with strawberries.
05 - Serving Tip: Keep the cheesecake chilled until serving to maintain its texture and the ganache consistency.

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