Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cocoa powder (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon to flatten it evenly.

4. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, then allow it to cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).

2. Add sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until fully incorporated.

3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Stir in the sour cream, flour, and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.

5. If using, add kirsch to the mixture and mix well.

6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is almost set (it should still be slightly jiggly).

2. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.

3. After the hour, transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely.

4. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let it set properly.

Step 4: Prepare the Black Forest Topping

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer and the sugar dissolves.

2. Mix the cornstarch with water and stir it into the cherry mixture. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.

3. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream.

2. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.

3. Set the ganache aside to cool slightly before using.

Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Once the cheesecake has cooled and set, gently run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen it.

2. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan and place it on a serving platter.

3. Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top of the cheesecake, letting it drip down the sides.

4. Spoon the cooled cherry topping evenly over the cheesecake, spreading it out into a beautiful, decadent layer.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

• Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and indulgent treat that’s bound to be a crowd favorite!