Red Velvet Trifle

all-purpose flour ((2 1/2 cups))

granulated sugar ((1 1/2 cups))

baking soda

salt

unsweetened cocoa powder

vegetable oil ((1 cup) )

buttermilk ((1 1/2 cups) )

eggs

red gel food coloring

white vinegar

vanilla extract

crushed candy canes ((about 25 miniature candy canes), to yield ½ cup crushed pieces)

butter ((3 sticks), at room temperature)

full-fat cream cheese ((3 blocks), at room temperature)

marshmallow cream or fluff ((1/2 cup))

vanilla extract

peppermint extract ((to taste))

salt

powdered sugar ((9 cups) )

cream ((or milk))

Additional candy cane pieces (or striped candies)