WHITE CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE WITH COCOA-ALMOND CRUST

Steps:

• Combine first 6 ingredients; stir well.
• Firmly press crumb mixture on bottom and 2 inches up sides of a 9 inch springform pan.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes; cool in pan on a wire rack.
• Combine white chocolate and 1/2 cup whipping cream in top of a double boiler; bring water to a boil.
• Reduce heat to low; cook until white chocolate melts, stirring occasionally.
• Let cool.
• Beat cream chees at medium speed of an electric mixer until fluffy; gradually add 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugaar, beating well.
• Add remaining 1/4 cup whipping cream, beating well.
• Add egg yolks, one at a time, beating after each addition.
• Stir in white chocolate mixture and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
• Beat egg whites at high speed until stiff peaks form.
• Fold into cream cheese mixture.
• Pour batter into prepared crust.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
• Remove from oven and let cool 15 minutes in pan on a wire rack.
• Increase oven temperature to 475 degrees.
• Combine sour cream, 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla; stir well.
• Pour over cheesecake, leaving a 3/4 inch border on edge of cheesecake.
• Return to oven and bank an additional 7 minutes.
• Cool to room temperature in pan on a wire rack.
• Chill at least 8 hours.
• Garnish with chocolate curls if desired.