Begin by preparing your ingredients for the Black Forest Trifle. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake a 9x13-inch chocolate cake or brownies according to the recipe. Allow it to cool completely. Prepare the cherry pie filling and chocolate pudding and chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Whip the cream by combining 1 ½ cups of cold heavy whipping cream, 2-4 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until soft peaks form.
Assemble your trifle in a large bowl with layers of chocolate cake, cherry pie filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers and sprinkle with kirsch or cherry liqueur if desired.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-4 hours, preferably overnight, to meld the flavors.
Before serving, garnish with fresh cherries, shaved chocolate, chocolate sprinkles, and a dusting of icing sugar or cocoa powder.