Place the 36 Oreo cookies — including the filling — into a food processor and grind them to a fine crumb texture.

Pour in the melted butter and stir until all crumbs are evenly moistened. If you do not have a food processor, you can place the cookies in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin, then mix with butter.

Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish to form a crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup for a compact crust. Chill in the fridge or freezer briefly while preparing the next layer.

For the peppermint cheesecake layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract; continue beating until fully combined.

Fold in the stabilized whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Then gently fold in the crushed candy cane pieces. The mixture will take on a light pink hue; if you prefer a more vibrant pink tone you may add a drop or two of red or pink food coloring (optional).

Spread the peppermint cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Return the dish to the freezer for about 10 to 15 minutes to help set the layer.

While the cheesecake layer chills, whisk together the two packages of instant chocolate pudding mix with 2 3/4 cups whole milk until the mixture begins to thicken and set.

Immediately pour or spread the pudding over the chilled peppermint cheesecake layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Return the dish to the fridge and allow the pudding to set completely — about 5 to 10 minutes or as per pudding package instructions.

When the pudding is set, spread 2 1/2 cups of whipped topping over it, smoothing with a spatula to create an even topping layer.

Sprinkle 1/4 cup crushed candy canes over the whipped topping as garnish just before serving to preserve the crunch and avoid melting.

Chill the assembled dessert in the fridge for at least 5 hours, though it is best if left overnight for a firmer, sliceable texture and more melded flavors.