Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if making a homemade chocolate cake. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan and bake the cake for about 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

In a mixing bowl, pour 2 cups of heavy cream, add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.

In a clear trifle dish, layer the chocolate cake, then cherries, then whipped cream. Repeat layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Before serving, sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa powder on top.

Serve by scooping portions into bowls, ensuring each gets layers of cake, cream, and cherries.