Start by baking your vanilla cake directly in the springform pan. Properly creaming your butter and sugar ensures a soft, fluffy base. Once baked, allow it to cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer.
Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla. Pour over the cooled cake and bake carefully to prevent cracks.
Once the cheesecake has partially set, add a layer of thick chocolate ganache in the center. This creates a rich, fudgy contrast that complements the creamy cheesecake beautifully.
After the cheesecake cools completely, prepare the ganache for the topping with a touch of corn syrup to keep it silky. Pipe around the edges, then fill the center with cooled pastry cream. Chill for a few hours before slicing.