Decadent Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted)
• Cream cheese (4 (8-ounce) packages, softened)
• Granulated sugar (1 cup)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Eggs (4 large)
• Sour cream (1 cup)
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a solid crust. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a silky texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
6. Stir in the sour cream until well combined.
7. Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center when done.
10. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it before carefully removing the sides of the springform pan.
11. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let it set completely.
12. Slice and serve chilled. For an extra touch, top with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving.