Tiramisu Poke Cake: A Luscious Symphony of Coffee and Cream

Indulge your taste buds in the enchanting world of Italian desserts with our Tiramisu Poke Cake. This decadent creation takes the classic flavors of Tiramisu—a beloved Italian delicacy—and transforms them into a moist and irresistible poke cake. Imagine layers of delicate coffee-infused cake soaked in a rich coffee syrup, adorned with velvety mascarpone filling, and finished with a dusting of cocoa. This recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional Tiramisu, making it an accessible and delightful treat for any occasion. Join us on this culinary journey as we guide you through the steps of creating this heavenly Tiramisu Poke Cake that promises to elevate your dessert game.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coffee Syrup:

• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/2 cup sugar

For the Mascarpone Filling:

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, brewed coffee, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the package instructions.
4. Once baked, allow the cake to cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Syrup

1. In a small bowl, mix the brewed coffee and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.
3. Slowly pour the coffee syrup over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let the cake absorb the syrup as it cools.

Step 3: Whip up the Mascarpone Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Using an electric mixer, whip the ingredients until the mixture forms stiff peaks.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the mascarpone filling evenly over the top.
2. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Before serving, dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder for a classic Tiramisu finish.
2. Slice and savor the layers of coffee-infused bliss.

Cook Notes

• For an extra coffee kick, consider adding a tablespoon of coffee liqueur to the coffee syrup.
• Ensure the cake is thoroughly cooled before applying the mascarpone filling to prevent it from melting.

Variations

Chocolate Lover’s Delight

• Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and mascarpone filling for an extra layer of richness.

Nutty Indulgence

• Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds on top for a delightful crunch.

Expresso Infusion

• Infuse the coffee syrup with a shot of espresso for a bolder coffee flavor.

Keto Version

For those on a keto journey, savor the flavors with these modifications:

Cake Substitute:

• Use a keto-friendly almond flour-based cake mix.

Sugar-Free Syrup:

• Substitute the sugar in the coffee syrup with a sugar-free alternative.

Low-Carb Version

Trim down the carbs without compromising on taste:

Cake Substitute:

• Choose a low-carb cake mix or make your own using almond flour.

Sugar-Free Syrup:

• Use a sugar-free sweetener in the coffee syrup.

In conclusion, the Tiramisu Poke Cake invites you to experience the sophistication of Tiramisu in a delightful and accessible form. Whether you follow the classic recipe, explore tempting variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, this cake is a celebration of indulgence and simplicity. Share it with friends and family, serve it at gatherings, or enjoy it as a luxurious treat for yourself. Let the layers of coffee-soaked cake and velvety mascarpone filling transport you to the charming cafes of Italy, where each bite is a moment of pure bliss. Elevate your dessert repertoire with the Tiramisu Poke Cake—a symphony of coffee and cream that transforms an ordinary day into a sweet escape to Italy.