For the Crust:

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
   2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
   3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool while preparing the cheesecake filling.
2. For the Cheesecake Filling:
   1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
   2. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
   3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
   4. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy cream, flour, and cocoa powder until smooth. Add this mixture to the cream cheese mixture and beat until fully combined.
   5. Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
   6. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles, then smooth the top.
   7. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm and the top should be lightly golden.
   8. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
   9. After 1 hour, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
3. For the Topping:
   1. Once the cheesecake has chilled and set, make the whipped cream by whipping the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   2. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top of the cheesecake.
   3. Top the cheesecake with maraschino cherries or fresh cherries, and drizzle some cherry juice over the top for added flavor.
   4. Optional: Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings or curls on top for a more decadent finish.
4. Assembling the Cake:
   1. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter.
   2. Decorate the cheesecake with more whipped cream, cherries, and chocolate shavings.
   3. Slice and serve!