Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cannoli Poke Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: ~4 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 15-18 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cannoli Poke Cake is the perfect fusion of Italian and American desserts! This easy-to-make treat features a moist vanilla cake infused with sweetened condensed milk, then topped with a creamy ricotta and mascarpone mixture, mini chocolate chips, and a dusting of powdered sugar. With its rich, indulgent flavor and effortless preparation, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients

  • 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  • Bake the Cake – Prepare a 9×13-inch white cake according to package instructions.
  • Poke Holes – While still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes 1 inch apart all over the cake.
  • Soak the Cake – Pour half of the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
  • Make the Topping – In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mascarpone, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Sweeten the Topping – Stir in powdered sugar and cinnamon (if using).
  • Incorporate Remaining Milk – Gently fold in the remaining sweetened condensed milk until combined.
  • Assemble the Cake – Spread the topping evenly over the cooled cake.
  • Chill – Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight.
  • Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Flavor Twist: Add 1 tsp of orange zest to the topping for a fresh citrus note.
  • Nutty Addition: Top with chopped pistachios for added crunch.
  • Chocolate Option: Swap the white cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a decadent version.
  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.