Prepare the Crust

1. Crush the Crackers: In a food processor or using a plastic bag and rolling pin, crush the chocolate graham crackers into fine crumbs. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of crumbs.
2. Mix the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and resembles wet sand.
3. Press into Pan: Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish, making sure it’s even and compact. You can use the back of a spoon to press it down tightly.
4. Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the freezer while you prepare the filling, so it sets and firms up.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and continue to beat until well combined.
3. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This can take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer.
4. Fold in the Sour Cream: Gently fold the sour cream into the cream cheese mixture, making sure everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Combine the Mixtures: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is fully incorporated and light in texture.

Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Fill the Crust: Spoon the cheesecake filling onto the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to create a flat surface.
2. Freeze: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place the cheesecake in the freezer. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm and fully set.

Make the Cherry Topping

1. Cook the Cherries: In a small saucepan, combine the cherries (with syrup if using canned), sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir well and cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy.
2. Cool the Topping: Remove from heat and allow the cherry topping to cool completely before using it to top the cheesecake. The syrup will thicken further as it cools.

Serve the Cheesecake

1. Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is set and the cherry topping has cooled, spoon the cherry mixture generously over the top of the cheesecake.
2. Add Final Touches: If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream around the edges and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder for an extra indulgent touch.
3. Slice and Serve: Slice the cheesecake into 10-12 servings and enjoy the creamy, frozen delight!