Making the Oreo Ice Cream Dessert is simple when you follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Pan: Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Crush the Oreos: In a Ziploc bag or using a food processor, crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs.
3. Make the Base: Reserve about 1 cup of the crushed Oreos for the topping. In a bowl, mix the remaining crushed Oreos with ½ cup of whipped topping until well combined.
4. Layer the Base: Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
5. Add Ice Cream: Spoon the softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the Oreo crust layer. Smooth it out with a spatula.
6. Add Chocolate Syrup: Drizzle chocolate syrup evenly over the ice cream, and use a knife to swirl it in slightly.
7. Add Peanut Butter: If you’re using it, drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the ice cream. Gently swirl it in for a delightful flavor combination.
8. Whipped Topping Layer: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the chocolate syrup and peanut butter, smoothing it out.
9. Top Layer: Sprinkle the reserved crushed Oreos on top of the whipped topping layer. For additional texture, sprinkle mini chocolate chips if desired.
10. Freeze: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.
11. Slice and Serve: Once set, take the dessert out from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to make it easier to serve.

Following these steps will lead to an impressive and delicious Oreo Ice Cream Dessert that is sure to impress!