1. Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.

2. Making the Cheesecake Batter

5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
6. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
7. Add green gel food coloring, adjusting until you achieve an emerald-green hue.
8. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.

3. Baking the Cheesecake

9. Pour filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
10. Place the pan in a water bath to prevent cracks.
11. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
12. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

4. Creating the Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

13. In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until steaming (not boiling).
14. Pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let sit for 2 minutes.
15. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before drizzling.

5. Decorating & Serving

16. Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cooled cheesecake in elegant swirls.
17. Add edible silver dust or sprinkles for a sophisticated Slytherin touch.
18. Chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing and serving.