Chocolate Espresso Cheesecake

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar. Mix until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
2. Make the filling
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sugar and continue beating until well incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
3. Add the chocolate and coffee
   Pour in the melted chocolate and dissolved espresso mixture. Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. The batter should be a uniform chocolate color with no streaks. Add the flour, sour cream, and salt, and beat on low speed just until incorporated.
4. Bake the cheesecake
   Wrap the outside of the springform pan with a double layer of aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. Pour hot water into the roasting pan to create a water bath that comes about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
5. Cool properly
   Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and water bath, and run a knife around the edges to loosen. Let cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
6. Prepare topping
   When ready to serve, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spread the whipped cream around the edge of the cheesecake and garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans.
7. Serve and enjoy
   Remove the sides of the springform pan. For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.