Introduction
Life is a beautiful mix of moments, and the sweet times often involve sharing tasty treats with loved ones. Imagine the smiles that light up the room when you present a Cannoli Poke Cake Recipe that marries the comforting traditional flavors of cannoli with the moist and inviting nature of a poke cake. There’s something about indulging in a dessert that makes even the simplest gatherings feel special, connecting us to cherished memories and creating new ones in the process.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual family dinner, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this Cannoli Poke Cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Each slice holds the promise of joy, bringing a slice of Italian bakery magic right to your kitchen. So, let’s embrace the warmth of this recipe and whip up something delectable that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix
- Ingredients required for cake mix (water, oil, eggs)
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of mini chocolate chips
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
- Whipped cream for topping
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Key ingredients
Cake mix. Start with your favorite vanilla cake mix as the base. This makes the process easy and allows you to focus on the creamy filling later.
Sweetened condensed milk. This ingredient adds moisture and sweetness, ensuring that every bite melts in your mouth.
Ricotta cheese. Essential for that authentic cannoli flavor, the ricotta gives the cake a light, creamy texture.
Mascarpone cheese. Adding richness, this cheese balances perfectly with the sweetness of powdered sugar.
Mini chocolate chips. These little morsels offer a delightful chocolatey burst, reminding you of traditional cannoli treats.
Why we love this recipe
Tender cake: The base of the poke cake is incredibly soft and moist, inviting you to enjoy a generous slice.
Creamy filling: The combination of ricotta and mascarpone creates a stunningly creamy center that feels luxurious in your mouth.
Chocolate goodness: Every bite features tiny pockets of melted chocolate that heighten the cake’s enjoyable flavors.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, letting you focus on enjoying the moment.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a small get-together or a large celebration, this cake is sure to steal the show and create lasting memories.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve got all the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to transform simple components into a decadent Cannoli Poke Cake. This guide will take you through each exciting part of the process, ensuring that your creation is as delightful as it is delicious.
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Gather a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it with butter or non-stick spray. Prepare the cake mix according to the directions on the box, adding in the required water, eggs, and oil. Blend until the batter is smooth and creamy. Pour this delightful mixture into the greased pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting cake!
Step 2: Prepare the Poke Cake
Once the cake has finished baking, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke several holes across the top of the cake. This is what makes it a “poke” cake! After you’ve poked the holes, take your can of sweetened condensed milk and pour it generously over the top, letting it seep into the holes. Each bite will be filled with irresistible sweetness. Let the cake sit for a few minutes to absorb the milk.
Step 3: Whip Up the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip it together until it becomes smooth and creamy. The texture should be light and airy, making it a perfect filling. Once it’s ready, spread this delightful mixture generously over the top of the cake, covering it evenly. Each slice will reveal luscious layers of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Now, let’s add the finishing touches! Top the ricotta layer with a generous sprinkle of mini chocolate chips and crushed pistachios for added flavor and crunch. If you want to go the extra mile, drizzle a little melted chocolate on top for an irresistible shine that beckons to be indulged in.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to let all the flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, slice into this splendid creation. Each piece will reveal the moist cake, sweetened milk, and creamy filling, making it a showstopper at any gathering.
Notes
Option to Make Ahead
Consider making the cake a day in advance. It only gets better as it chills in the refrigerator, allowing all those wonderful flavors to deepen and mingle. Just be sure to cover it well so it stays fresh!
Serving Suggestions
This Cannoli Poke Cake is perfect as a stand-alone dessert but can also be served alongside fresh berries for a refreshing twist. Your guests will love the combination of flavors!
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover cake tightly covered in the fridge. It will stay delicious for about 3-4 days. We bet it won’t last that long, though; it’s just too good!
Experience the Joy of Baking
Baking this Cannoli Poke Cake brings not just a delicious treat, but also a sense of warmth and joy to your home. Imagine friends and family gathered around, their faces lighting up with delight at the first taste. You’ll create cherished memories each time you bake it.
Get Creative with Flavors
Feeling adventurous? You can mix and match flavors to make this cake your own! Infuse the ricotta filling with lemon zest for a tangy twist or add cinnamon for a warm, comforting spice. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to explore your inner pastry chef!
Share Your Masterpiece
Once you’ve whipped up this delectable dessert, don’t forget to share with your loved ones! The joy of cooking is always best when enjoyed together. Snap some photos of your beautiful cake and celebrate your culinary creation, inviting others to delight in your masterpiece.
Cook techniques
Mixing the Cake Batter
When preparing the cake batter, it’s essential to mix the ingredients until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture, so use a gentle hand.
Poking the Cake
After baking, allow the cake to cool slightly before using a fork to poke holes in it. The holes should be spaced evenly, ensuring the filling seeps into every part of the cake.
Filling the Cake
Once the holes are made, pour the filling over the cake slowly. This allows for better absorption and ensures the cake retains moisture.
Chilling the Cake
For optimal flavor and texture, chill the cake in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. This step allows the filling to meld with the cake.
Frosting Application
When spreading the frosting, use an offset spatula for a smooth finish. This technique helps create an elegant presentation, making the cake look professionally made.
Serving and Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cannoli poke cake on a decorative platter, garnished with chocolate shavings or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with fresh berries or a side of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For an added touch, consider serving slices with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for visual appeal.
People Also Ask:
What is the point of a poke cake?
The main purpose of a poke cake is to create a moist and flavorful dessert by allowing sauces or fillings to seep into the cake through holes poked after baking.
What is cannoli cake made of?
Cannoli cake typically consists of layers of vanilla or chocolate cake filled with a ricotta cheese mixture, flavored with vanilla and chocolate chips, reminiscent of traditional cannoli.
What is in the cannoli cake at Carrabba’s?
Carrabba’s cannoli cake features layers of moist cake, filled with a smooth ricotta cheesecake filling and topped with chocolate icing, incorporating flavors of classic cannoli.
Why is my poke cake soggy?
A poke cake may become soggy if too much filling is poured over it or if it is not allowed to set properly in the refrigerator, preventing absorption of the liquid.
How deep do you poke the holes in a poke cake?
The holes in a poke cake should be about 1 inch apart and poked down to about 3/4 of the way into the cake to allow the filling to penetrate effectively.
How can you prevent the soggy bottom of the cake?
To prevent a soggy bottom, avoid over-soaking the cake with filling and ensure it has sufficient time to chill, allowing the flavors to meld without excess moisture pooling.
Conclusion
Making a cannoli poke cake is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a joyful experience that brings people together. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a quiet evening at home, this dessert is sure to delight everyone who tries it. The balance of cake, cream, and chocolate offers a delicious treat with every bite. Have you tried any fun variations or flavor swaps with this recipe? I’d love to hear your stories and thoughts!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix, like chocolate or lemon, for unique variations of the poke cake.
Do I have to use ricotta in the filling?
While ricotta is traditional, you can substitute it with mascarpone or cream cheese to create a different flavor and texture.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day before serving. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If you prefer, you can use mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit as substitutes for chocolate chips in the filling.
Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the poke cake for later enjoyment. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before storing.
