Cannoli Poke Cake

Introduction

Cannoli Poke Cake is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This dessert is simple, delicious, and perfect for anyone who loves a sweet, creamy cake!

Why Make This Recipe

You should make this Cannoli Poke Cake because it combines the best of a traditional cake with the richness of cannoli. It’s easy to prepare and impresses family and friends at any gathering. Plus, every bite is moist and filled with creamy goodness!

How to Make Cannoli Poke Cake

Ingredients:

15.25 ounces white cake mix
1 1/4 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 egg whites
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (3/4 cup for drizzling and 1/2 cup for frosting)
1 1/2 cups Ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups Mascarpone cheese
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional for dusting)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and egg whites. Mix until well blended.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake according to package instructions, usually about 25-30 minutes.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool.
With a wooden skewer or fork, poke holes all over the cake.
In a small bowl, mix 3/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk with additional ingredients if desired, then drizzle it over the cake. Let it absorb.
In another bowl, make the frosting by combining Ricotta cheese, Mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, almond extract, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top.
Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cut into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Cannoli Poke Cake

Serve the Cannoli Poke Cake chilled or at room temperature. It’s great for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just a lovely family dessert night. Pair it with a cup of coffee to make it even better!

How to Store Cannoli Poke Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it, but the texture of the frosting may change.

Tips to Make Cannoli Poke Cake

Make sure to poke the holes deep enough so the sweetened condensed milk can soak through.
Using room temperature ingredients helps the cake mix better.
Don’t skip the mini chocolate chips on top—they add a wonderful texture!

Variation

You can add fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to the frosting for a fruity twist. Just chop them up and gently fold them into the frosting mixture before spreading it on the cake.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you like, but vanilla or yellow cake works best for this recipe.

Q2: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
You can check by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it the morning of your event or gathering.