Follow these simple steps to create your incredible Guinness Cheesecake:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
2. Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
3. Bake Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
4. Mix Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
5. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing until well combined and creamy.
6. Incorporate Sour Cream and Heavy Cream: Add sour cream and heavy whipping cream, mixing until smooth.
7. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to over-mix.
8. Stir in Guinness: Slowly pour in the Guinness stout and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
9. Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top.
10. Bake Cheesecake: Place the springform pan into a larger baking dish filled with water (water bath method). Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
11. Cool Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then, remove from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight.
12. Prepare Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until melted and smooth.
13. Top Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has chilled, pour the ganache over the top, spreading it evenly.
14. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, top with chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder before slicing and serving.

Following these steps will guide you in creating an amazing Guinness Cheesecake that’s sure to impress!