Cannoli Poke Cake Recipe: A Classic Italian Dessert

If you’re a fan of classic Italian desserts, you’ll absolutely love trying Cannoli Poke Cake. This recipe combines the traditional flavors of cannoli, such as creamy ricotta, vanilla, and chocolate, with the moist and tender texture of a poke cake. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or just a delightful everyday treat—this cake is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed recipe for making Cannoli Poke Cake, along with tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

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What is Cannoli Poke Cake?

Cannoli Poke Cake is a dessert inspired by the famous Italian treat, “cannoli,” which typically consists of a crispy shell filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese. The poke cake version takes these iconic flavors and transforms them into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing cake. The cake is poked with holes after baking, allowing a rich, creamy mixture to seep into every bite, creating a moist and flavorful dessert that’s impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Cannoli Poke Cake Recipe

1. Rich Italian Flavors: This cake captures the essence of cannoli with its creamy filling, vanilla, and chocolate chips.
2. Easy to Make: No complicated techniques—just simple steps for a stunning result.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, party, or weeknight dessert, this cake fits the bill.
4. Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or tweak the recipe to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Cannoli Poke Cake

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To make this delicious Cannoli Poke Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
• Optional: crushed pistachios or maraschino cherries for extra flair

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, then pour the batter into the prepared dish.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Cannoli Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
2. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

1. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
2. Pour the cannoli filling mixture over the cake, spreading it evenly and allowing it to seep into the holes.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream over the cake.
3. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips (and crushed pistachios or cherries, if using) on top for garnish.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
2. Slice and serve chilled for the best experience.

Tips for the Perfect Cannoli Poke Cake

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for whole milk ricotta and real vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overbake the Cake: Keep an eye on the cake to ensure it stays moist.
• Customize the Toppings: Add crushed pistachios, maraschino cherries, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra flair.
• Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

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Cannoli Poke Cake: A Creamy Italian Dessert with a Twist

A delicious and easy-to-make Cannoli Poke Cake that combines the classic flavors of cannoli—creamy ricotta, sweet vanilla, and rich chocolate—with the moist texture of a poke cake. Perfect for any occasion!

4 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Italian

Servings 12 slices

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 1 box vanilla cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box (eggs, oil, water)

For the Cannoli Filling

• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions, then pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
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• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes.
• While the cake is cooling, prepare the cannoli filling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.
• Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
• Pour the cannoli filling mixture over the cake, spreading it evenly and allowing it to seep into 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 cake.
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• Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for garnish. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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Notes

This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. For a richer flavor, use homemade whipped cream and high-quality ricotta cheese.

Keyword Cannoli Poke Cake, Creamy Poke Cake, Easy Cannoli Cake, Italian Dessert Recipes

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Conclusion

This Cannoli Poke Cake recipe is a delightful fusion of traditional Italian flavors and modern baking convenience. With its creamy filling, moist cake, and irresistible toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly Cannoli Poke Cake today!