Making a Black Forest Trifle for Christmas is easy when you follow these simple steps:

1. Bake the Cake: Prepare the chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Once baked, let it cool completely before cutting it into cubes.
2. Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until stiff peaks form.
3. Prepare the Dish: In a trifle dish or any large glass bowl, start layering your ingredients.
4. Layer the Cake: Begin with a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom of the dish.
5. Add the Cherries: Spoon a layer of cherry pie filling over the cake cubes. Spread it evenly for a consistent flavor.
6. Spread the Cream: Add a layer of whipped cream over the cherries, smoothing it out as necessary.
7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the process—cake, cherries, cream—until you fill the trifle dish or run out of ingredients. End with a layer of whipped cream on top.
8. Garnish: Finish with dark chocolate shavings on top for a gorgeous finish. Additional cherries can be placed on top for decoration.
9. Chill: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably, overnight.

By following these steps, you will create a stunning and flavorful Black Forest Trifle that is sure to impress everyone at your Christmas gathering!