Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Beat the filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs: Gradually beat in the large eggs, one at a time.
Fold in ingredients: Gently fold in the raspberries, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and optional red food coloring.
Pour the filling: Carefully pour the raspberry mixture over the prepared crust.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 55-60 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cool down: Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Chill in fridge: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.