Crush the cookies: Finely crush 48 Oreo cookies until they resemble coarse breadcrumbs, keeping the pieces relatively uniform for an even crust.
Mix the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cookies with 10 tablespoons of melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press into the pan: Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and press firmly into an even layer across the bottom, using the back of a spoon or measuring cup.
Beat the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat 12 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese until smooth, about 2 minutes on medium speed.
Add sugar and vanilla: Gradually mix in 3/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, beating until completely combined and fluffy, about another 2 minutes.
Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold 8 ounces of thawed Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula, taking care to maintain the airy texture.
Spread the cream layer: Spread the entire cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust, then sprinkle 6 finely crushed Oreo cookies across the surface.
Mix the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together two 3.9-ounce boxes of instant chocolate pudding with 3 cups of cold half and half or whole milk, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
Spread pudding layer: Pour the chocolate pudding over the cream cheese layer and smooth it into an even layer using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Add cookie layer: Sprinkle 6 more finely crushed Oreo cookies evenly over the pudding surface.
Spread final layer: Top the pudding layer with 8 ounces of thawed Cool Whip, spreading it to the edges of the pan for a uniform finish.
Garnish the top: Sprinkle 12 finely crushed Oreo cookies across the top for a stunning presentation and extra flavor.
Refrigerate: Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the layers to set and flavors to meld.