Dark Chocolate Layered Cheesecake

I'm not one of those people who go "crazy" for chocolate. Do I like chocolate? Yes. Do I have an addiction? Not really. Don't get me wrong, sometimes it's the only thing that can make everything in the world seem right again. Perhaps I just like some variety in my desserts. My husband is a total chocolate guy, I never have to guess what dessert he will order. This is one that he loves. I made it and was like "it's ok", he ate the whole thing and wanted more! Rich? Absolutely! If you are one of those crazy chocolate people give it a try :)

Chocolate Crumb Crust~ recipe follows

3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar
4 eggs
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups (12 ounce package) Hershey's Special Dark Chocolate chips, divided
1/2 teaspoon shortening (do not use butter, margarine or oil)

Prepare Chocolate Crumb Crust. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl until smooth. Gradually beat in eggs, heavy cream, vanilla and salt, beating until well blended; set aside.

Set aside 2 tablespoons chocolate chips. Place remaining chips in a large microwave~safe bowl. Microwave at medium (50% power) 1 1/2 minutes; stir. If necessary, microwave an additional 15 seconds at a time, stirring until chocolate is melted.

Gradually blend 1 1/2 cups cheesecake batter into melted chocolate. Spread 2 cups chocolate mixture in prepared crust.

Blend another 2 cups plain cheesecake batter into remaining chocolate mixture; spread 2 cups of this mixture over the first layer. Stir remaining cheesecake batter into remaining chocolate mixture; spread over second layer.

Bake 50~55 minutes or until center is almost set. Remove from oven to wire rack. With knife, immediately loosen cake from side of pan. Cool to room temperature.

Place reserved chocolate chips and shortening in small microwave~safe bowl. Microwave at medium power 30 seconds; stir. If necessary, microwave and additional 10 seconds at a time, stirring until chocolate is melted and smooth. Drizzle over top of cheesecake. Cover; refrigerate several hours until cold.

Chocolate Crumb Crust

1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 45 wafers, crushed)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup butter, melted

Stir together cookie crumbs, powdered sugar and cocoa; stir in butter. Press mixture onto bottom and 1 1/2 inches up sides of 9~inch springform pan.