01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and wrap the bottom tightly with aluminum foil.
02 -
In a heatproof bowl, melt bittersweet chocolate and butter in the microwave in 30 second increments, stirring after each interval until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
03 -
Using an electric mixer, beat granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until mixture is pale and frothy.
04 -
Slowly pour melted chocolate and butter into the sugar and egg mixture while mixing. Beat until smooth and well combined.
05 -
Fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt just until no dry streaks remain.
06 -
Pour the batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges with moist crumbs. Remove from oven and let cool. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.
07 -
Fill a large oven-safe skillet or casserole with warm water and place it on the bottom rack of the oven to create a steam bath.
08 -
Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30 second intervals, stirring each time, until completely smooth. Let cool slightly.
09 -
Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar in a large bowl until perfectly smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed.
10 -
Blend in the melted chocolate, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until combined. Add sour cream and mix until incorporated.
11 -
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and scraping the bowl after each addition.
12 -
Pour cheesecake filling over cooled brownie crust. Smooth top and place pan on rack above the water bath. Bake at 325°F for 60 to 70 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
13 -
Turn off oven, crack door open, and allow cheesecake to cool in oven for 1 hour. Remove and cool on top of oven for an additional hour. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
14 -
Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat heavy cream in a separate container in the microwave for 45 seconds, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute.
15 -
Whisk chocolate and cream until smooth and glossy. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to thicken.
16 -
Release cheesecake from the springform pan. Spread chilled ganache across the surface, then scatter candy-coated chocolate pieces evenly. Slice and serve.