Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Form the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s evenly spread and slightly packed. Use the back of a spoon to press down firmly.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Sugar and Sour Cream: Add the granulated sugar and sour cream to the cream cheese, and beat until well combined.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
4. Add Coffee Flavor: Dissolve the instant coffee granules in the brewed coffee, then add the coffee and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat until smooth.
5. Pour the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly wobbly. It’s important not to overbake the cheesecake, as it can crack.
2. Cool: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.
3. Chill: Once the cheesecake reaches room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to fully set.

Serve and Garnish

1. Top with Whipped Cream: Before serving, top the cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with shaved chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder for a beautiful, indulgent touch.
2. Slice and Serve: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice it into wedges, and serve.