Step 1: Craft the Reindeer's Antlers

Let's start by making your reindeer's majestic antlers!

• Gather two Lollipop sticks or Chopsticks.

Using the dark brown fondant:

• Knead and roll a 1-inch ball.
• Shape it into a long teardrop about 3 inches long.
• Carefully insert a lollipop stick into the base of the teardrop until it's at least three-quarters of the way in.
• Repeat these steps to make the second antler.

Create the antler branches:

• Roll four 0.75-inch dark brown fondant balls.
• Taper each into a smaller teardrop about 1.25 inches long.
• Slightly dampen the sides of the small teardrops with the damp paper towel.
• Attach two small teardrops to each antler, positioning them on either side to resemble branches.
• Set the antlers aside to allow them to firm up while you work on the rest of your reindeer.

Step 2: Shape the Ears

Time to give your reindeer some adorable ears!

• You'll need toothpicks for this part.

Using dark brown fondant:

• Roll two 0.75-inch balls.
• Taper each into a fat teardrop shape.
• Use the side of your pinkie finger to gently press and create a slight indentation in each ear.
• Carefully insert a toothpick into the base of each ear for support.
• Set the ears aside to rest while you continue.

Step 3: Create the Reindeer's Hair Tufts

Add some festive flair to your reindeer's look!

Using dark brown fondant:

• Roll three 1-inch balls.
• Roll each into a snake shape with a tapered end.
• Gently curl each snake using your fingers or around a marker to create whimsical hair tufts.
• Set the hair tufts aside to firm up.

Step 4: Make the Eyes

Bring your reindeer's face to life with expressive eyes!

Using white fondant:

• Roll two 1.25-inch balls.
• Flatten them into oval shapes for the eye whites.

Using dark brown fondant:

• Roll two 0.75-inch balls.
• Flatten them into ovals for the pupils.
• Attach the pupils to the eye whites using the damp paper towel.

Add a sparkle:

• Roll two tiny white fondant balls.
• Flatten them and place them on the brown pupils to create eye highlights.
• Set the eyes aside for now.

Step 5: Form the Nose and Mouth

Give your reindeer its charming snout!

Using dark brown fondant:

• Roll a 1-inch ball and slightly flatten it to form the nose.
• Roll a small piece into a snake about 1.25 inches long for the mouth.

Add a nose highlight:

• Roll a tiny piece of white fondant.
• Attach it to the nose to create a shiny highlight.
• Set these pieces aside for assembly.

Step 6: Assemble the Face

Let's put all those features together!

• Attach the eyes to the front of the cake, using the template for correct placement.
• Place the nose just below the eyes.
• Position the mouth beneath the nose, curving it into a gentle smile.

Step 7: Add the Antlers, Ears, and Hair

Now, let's complete your reindeer's head!

• Insert the antlers into the top of the cake, using the lollipop sticks for support. Use the template to guide you.
• Attach the ears on either side of the antlers, inserting the toothpicks into the cake.
• Place the hair tufts between the antlers, arranging them creatively for a fun hairstyle.

Tip: It's best to put the antlers, ears, and hair on the cake before adding the final accents.

Step 8: Add Freckle Accents

Give your reindeer some delightful freckles!

Using white fondant:

• Roll small balls of various sizes.
• Flatten them slightly.
• Attach them to the cake between the eyes and on the cheeks to form cute freckles.

Step 9: Wrap the Border

Keep your reindeer cozy with a festive border!

Using red fondant:

• Roll a 1.5-inch ball.
• Roll it into a snake about 18 inches long.

Wrap the border around the base of the cake, trimming any excess if needed.