1. Prepare Your Oven and Cake Pans:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
• Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a separate bowl, beat 2 cups of softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).

4. Add the Eggs and Wet Ingredients:

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated.
• Add the vanilla extract and mix.
• Alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk in portions. Mix until smooth and well-combined, but do not overmix.

5. Bake the Cakes:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Prepare the Frosting:

• Beat the remaining 1 cup of softened butter until smooth.
• Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, on low speed.
• Add the heavy cream or milk and beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

7. Frost the Cake:

• Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting evenly on top.
• Add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting). Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set.
• Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the cake, smoothing it with a spatula.

8. Decorate the Cake:

• Dust the cake with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect.
• Use green fondant to cut out festive shapes like holly leaves or stars.
• Place red sugar pearls on the cake for a pop of color.
• Sprinkle edible gold glitter for a magical finishing touch.
• Add meringue cookies or frosting swirls to complete the festive look.