01 -
Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a 23-centimetre springform pan with parchment paper and wrap the base with aluminium foil to prevent leakage.
02 -
Melt bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter together in a heatproof bowl in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted. Allow to cool slightly.
03 -
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until pale and frothy.
04 -
Gradually pour the cooled chocolate-butter mixture into the egg mixture, continuing to beat until smooth and integrated.
05 -
Fold in all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt gently until just combined with no visible dry streaks.
06 -
Transfer the batter into the prepared pan. Bake in the centre of the oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Remove and cool completely.
07 -
Reduce oven temperature to 165°C. Place a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish filled with warm water on the bottom rack to serve as a water bath.
08 -
Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
09 -
Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar in a large bowl using a mixer until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
10 -
Add melted chocolate chips, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and salt to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low until creamy, then beat in sour cream. Mix in eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl after each addition.
11 -
Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled brownie crust and smooth the surface. Place on the oven rack directly above the water bath. Bake for 60–70 minutes until edges are set and the centre jiggles slightly when shaken.
12 -
Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour. Transfer to a countertop and let cool for another hour before covering and chilling in the refrigerator overnight.
13 -
Place chocolate chips in a bowl. Heat heavy cream until steaming (about 45 seconds in the microwave), then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute.
14 -
Whisk the chocolate and cream together until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to thicken slightly.
15 -
Once the cheesecake and ganache are cooled, release the springform pan. Spread ganache evenly over the surface and decorate with candy-coated chocolate pieces. Slice to serve.