Creating the perfect Chocolate Chip Cheesecake can be straightforward. Follow these clear steps to ensure success:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Press Crust into Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.

4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and allow it to cool slightly.

5. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

6. Add Vanilla and Eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

7. Add Sour Cream: Gradually blend in the sour cream until the mixture is creamy and uniform.

8. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling.

9. Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

10. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

11. Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.

12. Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.