Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Italy without leaving your kitchen? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our sensational Cannoli Poke Cake! This delightful dessert puts a modern spin on the traditional Italian cannoli, featuring layers of moist white cake infused with sweetened condensed milk and topped with a creamy ricotta and mascarpone cheese filling. With a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar, this dessert is a true masterpiece that will transport you straight to the streets of Sicily. Join us as we uncover the secrets to creating this irresistible treat that’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 box white cake mix, plus ingredients called for on the box
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups mascarpone cheese
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the cake mix box and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the white cake mix according to the instructions on the box.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Making the Holes:
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, making sure to space them evenly apart.
3. Adding the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the top of the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and soak the cake thoroughly.
4. Preparing the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar.
- Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy, then spread it evenly over the top of the cake.
5. Garnishing the Cake:
- Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over the top of the cake, covering it evenly.
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a final touch of sweetness and decoration.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cannoli Shell Topping: For an authentic cannoli experience, crush cannoli shells into small pieces and sprinkle them over the top of the cake along with the chocolate chips.
- Flavor Variation: Add a hint of citrus flavor by stirring grated orange or lemon zest into the cheese filling.
- Nutty Crunch: Enhance the texture of the cake by incorporating chopped pistachios or almonds into the filling or sprinkling them on top.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this Cannoli Poke Cake, use a keto-friendly cake mix or bake a homemade almond flour or coconut flour-based cake. Replace the sweetened condensed milk with a sugar-free alternative such as condensed milk made with erythritol or stevia. Use full-fat ricotta and mascarpone cheese, and sweeten the filling with a powdered sugar substitute.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the same instructions as the keto version, but you can also reduce the amount of powdered sugar used in the filling or omit it altogether for a lower-carb option. Choose dark chocolate chips with a higher cocoa content to reduce the sugar content further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Q: Can I use different cheeses in the filling? A: While ricotta and mascarpone cheese provide the classic cannoli flavor, you can experiment with different cheeses such as cream cheese or cottage cheese for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Q: How long will the cake stay fresh? A: The Cannoli Poke Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Cannoli Poke Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that captures the essence of Italy in every bite. With its tender cake, creamy cheese filling, and indulgent chocolate chips, this dessert is a true celebration of Italian cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or as a special treat for a gathering with friends and family, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression. So channel your inner pastry chef, whip up a batch of this irresistible dessert, and get ready to savor the sweet taste of Italy!
Experience the magic of Cannoli Poke Cake and let your taste buds take a trip to the sunny shores of Sicily. With its luxurious filling and decadent flavors, this dessert is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Italy and a must-try for any dessert enthusiast!
