Name: Cannoli Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix; Ingredients listed on the cake mix box such as eggs, oil, and water; 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup mini chocolate chips; 1 container whipped topping; Powdered sugar for dusting; Additional mini chocolate chips for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy twist on classic cannoli flavors
Moist and creamy texture
Perfect make-ahead dessert
Great for parties and celebrations
Rich ricotta filling with chocolate chips
Simple ingredients and easy preparation
Delicious chilled dessert option

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake

1 box vanilla cake mix
Ingredients listed on the cake mix box such as eggs, oil, and water

For the Filling

1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Topping

1 container whipped topping
Powdered sugar for dusting
Additional mini chocolate chips for garnish

Directions

Prepare and bake the vanilla cake according to the package directions in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Allow the cake to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to soak into the cake.
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top and dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Cannoli Cake: Use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla.
Pistachio Version: Add chopped pistachios for extra crunch.
Orange Cannoli Flavor: Mix orange zest into the filling.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Replace whipped topping with fresh whipped cream.
Extra Chocolatey: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store Cannoli Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Because of the ricotta filling and whipped topping, this cake should remain chilled until serving. Freezing is possible, though the texture may soften slightly after thawing.

This dessert is served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a baked cake with holes poked into it so fillings can soak inside.

Does this cake taste like cannoli?

Yes, the ricotta filling and chocolate chips create classic cannoli-inspired flavor.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually best when chilled for several hours before serving.

Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?

Yes, homemade vanilla cake works perfectly.

Why is ricotta used?

Ricotta cheese is the traditional filling ingredient used in cannoli desserts.

Can I use mascarpone cheese?

Yes, mascarpone can be used for an even richer filling.

Do I need to strain the ricotta?

If the ricotta is very watery, straining helps improve the filling texture.

Can I freeze Cannoli Poke Cake?

Yes, though the whipped topping texture may slightly change after thawing.

What toppings work well?

Chocolate chips, pistachios, powdered sugar, and chocolate drizzle all pair nicely.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It is sweet and creamy, balanced by the mild flavor of ricotta cheese.

Conclusion

Cannoli Poke Cake is a deliciously creamy dessert that brings together the flavors of traditional cannoli in an easy-to-make cake form. Moist vanilla cake, rich ricotta filling, and chocolate chips combine to create a decadent treat perfect for any occasion. Whether served at holidays, birthdays, or casual gatherings, this chilled dessert is sure to impress every cannoli lover.

Cannoli Poke Cake

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Cannoli Poke Cake is a creamy and indulgent dessert inspired by classic Italian cannoli flavors. Soft vanilla cake is filled with sweet ricotta cream and mini chocolate chips, then topped with whipped topping and powdered sugar for a chilled dessert everyone will love.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare and bake the vanilla cake according to the package directions in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Allow the cake to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the holes.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to soak into the cake.
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top and dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Strain watery ricotta before mixing for a thicker filling.
Use mascarpone cheese for an even richer flavor.
Add chopped pistachios or orange zest for a traditional cannoli twist.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 34 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 58 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg