Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the batter, then pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top.
Drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce over the top and use a knife to swirl it gently into the batter.
Sprinkle chopped pecans on top if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.