1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Combine 2 cups of chocolate graham cracker crumbs with 5 tablespoons of melted butter in a bowl. Mix until combined and press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat 32 oz. of cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 4 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Gently fold in 8 oz. of melted and cooled milk chocolate into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
5. For the strawberry swirl, combine 2 cups of fresh strawberries, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, ¼ cup water, ¼ teaspoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Cool slightly, then purée in a blender or food processor until smooth.
6. Pour half of the chocolate cheesecake filling into the crust. Spoon half of the strawberry purée over the batter and use a knife to swirl the purée into the batter to create a marbled effect.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining chocolate cheesecake filling and strawberry purée, creating another swirl effect.
8. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water to create a water bath.
9. Bake the cheesecake in the water bath for 70-80 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
10. Turn off the oven, leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar, and let it cool for about an hour.
11. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and the water bath, then let it cool completely at room temperature.
12. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up.
13. Once chilled, release the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
14. Add optional toppings such as whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or chocolate shavings before serving.
15. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake.