Creating a stunning Black Forest Trifle is simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Prepare Cake: If using homemade chocolate cake, bake it according to the recipe or package instructions. Allow it to cool completely.
2. Whip Cream: In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.
3. Cut Cake: Slice the cooled chocolate cake into small cubes. Aim for bite-sized pieces to effortlessly layer in the trifle.
4. Prepare Cherry Mixture: If using Kirsch for a boozy touch, mix it with the reserved cherry juice in a bowl.
5. Layer Ingredients: In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, start with a layer of chocolate cake. Sprinkle some cherry juice over the cake to moisten it.
6. Add Cherries: Place a layer of Morello cherries over the cake bits.
7. Cream Layer: Add a layer of the whipped cream over the cherries.
8. Repeat: Continue layering in this order—chocolate cake, cherries, and whipped cream—until you reach the rim of the trifle dish.
9. Finish with Cream: Top the final layer with whipped cream and sprinkle dark chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder for presentation.
10. Chill: Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Now you have a stunning Black Forest Trifle, ready to impress!