Name: Decadent Cannoli Poke Cake That Will Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 box White Cake Mix (This provides the structure and base flavor.); 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened Condensed Milk (Adds moisture and sweetness.); 1.5 cups Ricotta Cheese (strained) (Infuses the cake with the signature cannoli flavor.); 1.5 cups Mascarpone Cheese (Creates a velvety texture when chilled.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Enhances overall flavor.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and thickens the frosting.); 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon (Adds warmth to the frosting.); 1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (Provides delightful texture on top.); Additional Powdered Sugar (For dusting, if desired.)

The mix of excitement and uncertainty swirled in my kitchen as I attempted to transform the classic Italian cannoli into a delightful Cannoli Poke Cake. This cheerful dessert brings the beloved flavors of a traditional cannoli right to your table in an incredibly easy-to-make poke cake form. Imagine a moist cake soaked in sweetened condensed milk, topped with a creamy ricotta and mascarpone cheese frosting that just melts in your mouth. The best part? This festive cake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to whip up for any occasion, from birthdays to cozy family gatherings. So, are you ready to dive into a sweet slice of this Italian-inspired treat?

92ca2b8c 21e8 4ea7 8514 2c1637ea54a8tr y8uc29

Why Is Cannoli Poke Cake So Irresistible?

Decadent flavor combination: This cake merges the classic Italian cannoli flavor with the light, fluffy texture of a poke cake for a truly divine treat.
Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip this up in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings!
Versatile toppings: Feel free to get creative! Swap in crushed pistachios or even chunks of chopped waffle cones for an extra crunch.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dessert always impresses guests. Serve it alongside a refreshing scoop of gelato for an unforgettable experience!
Make-ahead: Prepare this cake a day in advance to enhance the flavors and save time on the special occasion. You’ll love having one less thing to worry about!

For another delightful dessert experience, check out my recipe for Decadent Carrot Cake or try the luscious Chocolate Mousse Cake for a chocolate fix!

Cannoli Poke Cake Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything you need to create this delightful Italian-inspired dessert!

For the Cake

White Cake Mix – This provides the structure and base flavor; a boxed mix ensures ease and convenience.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds moisture and sweetness to the cake; avoid evaporated milk for this recipe as it lacks sugar.

For the Frosting

Ricotta Cheese (1 ½ cups, strained) – Infuses the cake with the signature cannoli flavor for a creamy texture; strain to remove excess liquid for best results.
Mascarpone Cheese (1 ½ cups) – Creates a velvety texture in the frosting; keep it chilled before use to maintain consistency.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances overall flavor and brings warmth to the frosting.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust to your taste for optimal sweetness.
Cinnamon (½ teaspoon) – Adds a lovely warmth to the frosting, reminiscent of traditional cannoli flavors.

For the Topping

Mini Chocolate Chips (1 cup) – Provides a delightful texture and sweet bite on top; feel free to swap for crushed pistachios or chopped waffle cones for a twist.
Additional Powdered Sugar – For dusting, if desired, adding an extra touch of sweetness to your presentation.

This Cannoli Poke Cake is a perfect way to impress your guests with minimal effort while indulging in delightful Italian flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannoli Poke Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure the cake releases easily. In a large mixing bowl, follow the instructions on the white cake mix box to prepare the batter. Once combined, pour it into the prepared pan and place it in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Cool and Poke
After baking, remove the Cannoli Poke Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes about 1-2 inches apart all over the top of the cake, ensuring they are deep enough for the sweetened condensed milk to soak in.

Step 3: Soak the Cake
Take ½ cup of the sweetened condensed milk and set it aside. Pour the remaining milk over the holes in the cooled cake, ensuring it seeps in evenly. Let the cake absorb the milk for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Chill the Cake
Once the milk has been absorbed, place the cake in the refrigerator for approximately 1 hour. This chilling time will help the flavors meld and ensure the cake is perfectly moist, enhancing the indulgent experience of your Cannoli Poke Cake before frosting it.

Step 5: Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, combine the strained ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing until just incorporated, and then gently fold in the reserved sweetened condensed milk for added flavor.

Step 6: Frost the Cake
Once the frosting is ready, carefully spread it over the chilled Cannoli Poke Cake, ensuring an even layer that covers the entire top. As you frost, feel free to add swirls and peaks for visual appeal. This creamy topping makes the cake utterly irresistible and pays homage to the traditional cannoli flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle the top of the frosted cake with 1 cup of mini chocolate chips, creating an inviting and tempting look. Before serving, dust with additional powdered sugar if desired for that extra touch of elegance. Refrigerate the completed Cannoli Poke Cake for at least 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to develop and the frosting to set perfectly.

92ca2b8c 21e8 4ea7 8514 2c1637ea54a8bl dcpiys

What to Serve with Cannoli Poke Cake?

Imagine the laughter and clinking of glasses as you and your loved ones gather around the table, ready to indulge in sweet delights that delight the senses.

Fresh Berries: Their juicy sweetness and tartness offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy cake, brightening each bite.
Vanilla Gelato: This velvety, rich ice cream provides a cold and creamy complement to the warm flavors of the cake, creating a heavenly pairing.
Espresso Coffee: The boldness of a freshly brewed cup enhances the sweet notes, while its slight bitterness perfectly balances the cake’s richness.
Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: Crunchy and slightly sweet, these delightful cookies add texture and a charming Italian touch to your dessert table.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Light and fluffy, these sweet treats mirror the cake’s flavors, inviting everyone to enjoy a little indulgence in every bite.
Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor ties beautifully with the cannoli tradition, and its creamy texture harmonizes with the cake’s frosting.

Serving any of these classic accompaniments alongside your Cannoli Poke Cake will elevate the entire dining experience, making it a delightful feast to remember!

How to Store and Freeze Cannoli Poke Cake

Fridge: Keep leftover Cannoli Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Best served chilled!

Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: If desired, allow the cake to come to room temperature before enjoying. The frosting may soften slightly, creating a delightful texture.

Airtight Storage: Always store in an airtight container to prevent the cake from drying out and to keep its rich flavors intact.

Cannoli Poke Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to sprinkle in your own creativity and make this Cannoli Poke Cake truly your own with delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Replace ricotta and mascarpone with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a luscious richness without dairy.
Nutty Topping: Swap mini chocolate chips for crushed pistachios, adding a nutty crunch that complements the creamy frosting beautifully.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the frosting for a refreshing citrusy kick that brightens the traditional flavor profile.
Crunchy Texture: Add chopped cannoli shells to the frosting for a delightful crunch, bringing the classic texture of a cannoli into your cake.
Alternative Sweetness: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of powdered sugar in the frosting for a unique sweetness that adds depth.
Layered Delight: Create a layered cake by making two cakes and stacking them with frosting in between for an impressive centerpiece at gatherings.
Flavor Infusion: Infuse the cake mix with almond extract instead of vanilla for a classic Italian flavor that marries beautifully with ricotta.
Extra Heat: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne powder to your frosting; the warmth surprisingly enhances the sweet profile, providing a unique contrast.

Each of these variations allows you to tailor your Cannoli Poke Cake to your family’s tastes and can transform this already beloved dessert into something uniquely yours! For more sweet ideas, consider checking out my Strawberry Shortcake Fluff or indulge in a fun twist with Blueberry Cake Donuts. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Cannoli Poke Cake

Poke Spacing: Ensure holes are spaced 1-2 inches apart to maintain cake structure. Too close together can lead to excess moisture pooling.
Frosting Thickness: The frosting may seem thin before refrigerating; it will thicken as it cools. Add more powdered sugar for desired consistency.
Flavor Melding: For richer flavors, prepare the Cannoli Poke Cake a day in advance. This allows the sweetened condensed milk to fully infuse the cake.
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality ricotta and mascarpone cheese for the best taste; lower quality can result in a watery consistency.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days, but for the best flavor, enjoy within the first couple of days.

Make Ahead Options

These Cannoli Poke Cakes are ideal for meal prep and can save you time for busy occasions! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance. Once cooled, poke the holes and soak it with sweetened condensed milk; then, refrigerate it to allow the flavors to develop. The frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cake, add the toppings, and enjoy a delicious dessert that’s just as rich and creamy as when freshly made. This way, you’ll have a delightful Cannoli Poke Cake ready to impress your guests!

92ca2b8c 21e8 4ea7 8514 2c1637ea54a8br m4hiy8

Cannoli Poke Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of ricotta cheese should I use for my Cannoli Poke Cake?
I recommend using whole milk ricotta for its creaminess and richness, which perfectly captures the traditional cannoli flavor. If your ricotta seems watery, simply strain it through a cheesecloth or fine sieve for about 30 minutes to ensure your frosting maintains a thick, luscious texture.

How should I store leftover Cannoli Poke Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to avoid drying out, as this dessert is best enjoyed chilled and moist!

Can I freeze Cannoli Poke Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What should I do if my frosting seems too thin?
If your frosting appears thinner than expected, don’t worry! Just add a little more powdered sugar, about ¼ cup at a time, mixing until you reach your desired thickness. The frosting will also thicken as it cools in the refrigerator after application.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This Cannoli Poke Cake contains dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Additionally, if you’re making it for someone with a nut allergy, be cautious with topping options like pistachios. Always check the labels for any potential allergens in the ingredients used.

How can I enhance the flavors of my Cannoli Poke Cake?
You can elevate the cake by preparing it a day in advance. Allowing the cake to rest covered in the refrigerator overnight will give the sweetened condensed milk time to fully permeate the cake, resulting in a richer flavor and a more moist texture. Adding a layer of orange zest to the frosting could also add a delightful citrus hint!