Introduction
Welcome to our delicious recipe for Cannoli Poke Cake! If you’re a fan of cannoli and cake, then this dessert is a match made in heaven. Imagine a light and fluffy cake infused with the flavors of a classic cannoli – creamy ricotta, chocolate chips, and hints of citrus. It’s a dessert that will transport you to the streets of Sicily with every bite.
Now, you might be wondering what makes this recipe so special. Well, aside from the mouthwatering taste, this Cannoli Poke Cake is incredibly easy to make. It’s the perfect dessert for those times when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fun twist on the traditional cannoli that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof. So, let’s dive into the details and discover why you’ll love this Cannoli Poke Cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cannoli Poke Cake is a dream come true for dessert lovers. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
1. Easy to Make: Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can whip up this cake in no time. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, success is practically guaranteed.
2. Irresistible Flavors: The combination of creamy ricotta, chocolate chips, and citrusy notes creates a tantalizing flavor profile. Each bite is a burst of sweetness and tanginess that will leave you craving more.
3. Light and Fluffy: This Cannoli Poke Cake has a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect balance between a moist cake and a creamy filling.
4. Customizable: While the classic recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, you can get creative and add your own twist. Experiment with different toppings, such as crushed pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate sauce, to make it your own.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this Cannoli Poke Cake is the ideal dessert. It’s versatile, elegant, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Before we get to the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delectable Cannoli Poke Cake:
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract
- 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Additional mini chocolate chips for garnish
Optional:
- Crushed pistachios
- Chocolate sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this delightful Cannoli Poke Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cannoli filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, almond extract, mini chocolate chips, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake.
- Pour the cannoli filling over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake, covering the cannoli filling.
- Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips over the whipped cream for garnish.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Pro Tip: To make slicing easier, dip a sharp knife in warm water before each cut. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the knife and ensure clean slices.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the best results with your Cannoli Poke Cake:
1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, milk, and ricotta cheese are at room temperature before starting. This will ensure better mixing and a smoother consistency.
2. Don’t Overmix: When preparing the cake batter, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake.
3. Whip the Cream Properly: For the whipped cream topping, make sure the heavy cream is cold. Also, chill the mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before whipping. This will help the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better.
4. Refrigerate Before Serving: It’s important to refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to set properly.
5. Get Creative with Toppings: While mini chocolate chips are a classic topping, feel free to get creative. Crushed pistachios, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary preferences, here are some variations and substitutions you can try with this Cannoli Poke Cake:
1. Chocolate Cannoli Poke Cake: For the chocolate lovers out there, replace the vanilla cake mix with a chocolate cake mix. You can also add cocoa powder to the cannoli filling for an extra chocolatey kick.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the chocolate chips and ricotta cheese, are gluten-free as well.
3. Healthier Twist: For a healthier version, you can use a sugar-free cake mix and substitute the ricotta cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or whipped coconut milk.
Serving Suggestions
This Cannoli Poke Cake is a showstopper on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with some delightful accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:
1. Fresh Berries: Top each slice of cake with a handful of fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries. The tartness of the berries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice of Cannoli Poke Cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or your favorite tea. The combination of flavors will make your taste buds sing.
3. Whipped Cream: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. It adds an extra layer of creaminess and decadence.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Cannoli Poke Cake:
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve.
Q: How long does this cake last?
A: If stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Cannoli Poke Cake can last for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze this cake. However, it’s best to freeze it without the whipped cream topping. Once thawed, you can prepare fresh whipped cream and spread it over the cake.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While ricotta cheese is the traditional choice for cannoli filling, you can experiment with other soft cheeses, such as mascarpone or cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a delightful and easy-to-make Cannoli Poke Cake that will impress your friends and family. With its irresistible flavors and creamy texture, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of cannoli or simply looking for a delicious cake recipe, this Cannoli Poke Cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking! We can’t wait to hear about your Cannoli Poke Cake adventures. Don’t forget to share your experiences and tag us on social media. Happy baking!
CANNOLI POKE CAKE
A delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of a classic cannoli – creamy ricotta, chocolate chips, and hints of citrus – in a light and fluffy cake. Perfect for any occasion and sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract
- 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Additional mini chocolate chips for garnish
- Crushed pistachios (optional)
- Chocolate sauce (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cannoli filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, almond extract, mini chocolate chips, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake.
- Pour the cannoli filling over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake, covering the cannoli filling.
- Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips over the whipped cream for garnish.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
