Instructions: Combine first 3 ingredients, mixing well. Press mixture into bottom of a 9-inch springform pan; chill. Beat cream cheese with electric mixer until light and fluffy; gradually add sugar, mixing well. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream, melted chocolate, cocoa, and vanilla, mix well. Gently fold in whipped cream; spoon into prepared pan.

Bake at 300 for 1 hour. Turn oven off; allow cheesecake to cool in oven an additional 30 minutes. Refrigerate 8 hours. Remove sides of pan and garnish with additional whipped cream, chocolate curls, almonds, and cherries.

Yield: 10 to 12 servings.

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