Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the cake layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the buttercream frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
4. Reserve a large portion of white frosting for the beard, hat trim, and face. Color one portion red for the hat and another small portion black for the eyes.

Step 3: Assemble the cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of white frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top.
2. Apply a thin layer of white frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 4: Decorate Santa’s face

1. Cover the top third of the cake with red frosting to create Santa’s hat.
2. Use mini marshmallows or piped white frosting to form the hat’s trim and pom-pom.
3. Pipe or spread white frosting to create Santa’s beard and mustache. You can also use mini marshmallows for a textured effect.
4. Add two chocolate chips for the eyes and a red candy or small piece of fondant for the nose.

Step 5: Add finishing touches

1. Dust the cake lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
2. Optional: Pipe additional details like rosy cheeks or a smile using tinted frosting.