Recipe(tried): Chocolate Cheesecake with Chocolate Crumb Crust

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

FOR THE CRUST:
1 (9 oz) pkg chocolate wafers, finely crushed
1/2 cup butter, melted
FOR THE FILLING:
1 (12 oz) pkg semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups heavy (whipping) cream
2 pkg (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream (optional, for decorating)

TO PREPARE THE CRUST:
In large bowl, combine chocolate wafer crumbs and butter. Pat firmly into 9-inch springform pan, covering bottom and 2 1/2-inches up sides. Chill.

TO MAKE THE CHEESECAKE:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Combine over hot (not boiling) water, chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir until morsels are melted and mixture is smooth. Set aside.

In large bowl, combine cream cheese and sugar, beating until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add chocolate mixture and vanilla, mix until blended. Pour into prepared crust.

Bake at 325 degrees F for 60 minutes. Turn oven off. Let stand in oven with door ajar 1 hour. Remove, cool completely. Chill 24 hours.

Decorate edge with whipped cream, if desired.

Makes 1 (9-inch) cheesecake