Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, stir crumbs with butter and 1/2 cup of the maple syrup, until well mixed. Press onto bottom and sides of a 10 inch springform pan. Wrap bottom with foil, but do not bake. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Beat in remaining syrup, eggs, vanilla and cream until smooth. Pour into crust and bake for 1 hour. The center will seem soft, but with firm upon chilling. Cool on a rack, then chill overnight. Remove sides before slicing into wedges, and serving. Top with whipped cream, if desired.