Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies with the melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a lined mini muffin pan or silicone molds. Chill in the refrigerator to set.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and peppermint extract, and continue beating until well combined and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream to keep the filling light and fluffy. Optionally, swirl in a few drops of red food coloring for a festive touch. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies last.

Step 3: Assemble the Bites

Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the chilled crusts in the mini muffin pan. Smooth the tops and sprinkle with extra crushed Oreo cookies and peppermint candies.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 3 hours, or until they are firm. Once set, remove them from the mold, top with whipped cream if desired, and serve.

Variation:

For a chocolate peppermint version, mix some cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling or use chocolate-flavored whipped cream for topping.