Creating your Black Forest Trifle for Christmas is simple when following these steps:

1. Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip the mixture until soft peaks form. Set aside.

2. Crumble the Cake: Break the prepared chocolate cake into small pieces, ensuring there are enough crumbles to create layers.

3. Layer the Ingredients: In a clear trifle dish or individual serving glasses, begin layering:
– Start with a layer of crumbled chocolate cake at the bottom.
– Follow it with a layer of cherry pie filling or fresh cherries.
– Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the cherries.

4. Repeat the Layers: Continue the layering process until your dish is filled, ensuring you finish with a generous layer of whipped cream on top.

5. Garnish: Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings or cocoa powder over the top layer of whipped cream for an elegant touch.

6. Chill: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the trifle to set.