Introduction:
Combining the flavors of a classic Italian cannoli with the convenience of a poke cake creates an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The Cannoli Poke Cake offers a unique twist on traditional cake, featuring a moist and flavorful base infused with sweetened condensed milk and topped with a rich, creamy frosting made from ricotta and mascarpone cheeses. Whether you’re celebrating a special event, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply craving a delicious treat, this cake is sure to impress. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins and cultural significance of cannoli, delve into the ingredients and their quantities, discuss optional additions and tips for success, and provide a detailed step-by-step guide to ensure you create the perfect Cannoli Poke Cake. Let’s dive into the world of this delectable dessert and discover the magic it holds.
Origin and Cultural Significance:
Cannoli, a traditional Italian pastry, originated in Sicily and has a rich history dating back to the Arab rule of the island. These iconic pastries are made from a tube-shaped shell of fried dough, filled with a sweet, creamy ricotta cheese filling. Cannoli have become a symbol of Sicilian cuisine and are enjoyed worldwide, celebrated for their delightful combination of crunchy shells and creamy fillings. The Cannoli Poke Cake takes inspiration from this beloved treat, infusing its flavors into a moist and tender cake. By combining the essence of cannoli with the simplicity of a poke cake, this dessert captures the best of both worlds, offering a modern twist on a timeless classic.
Ingredients Quantity:
To create the perfect Cannoli Poke Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients in precise quantities:
For the Cake Base:
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix (we used Pillsbury brand) (432g)
- 1 ¼ cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 egg whites
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk, divided ¾ cup for drizzling and ½ cup for frosting (we used Great Value brand) (396g)
For the Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (we used Great Value brand)
- 1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese (we used BelGioioso brand)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon pure almond extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (we used Nestle Toll House brand)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
These ingredients are carefully selected to ensure a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The cake mix provides a convenient and reliable base, while the ricotta and mascarpone cheeses create a rich and creamy frosting. The sweetened condensed milk adds moisture and sweetness, and the mini chocolate chips add a delightful crunch. The optional ground cinnamon and powdered sugar enhance the flavor profile and presentation.
Optional Additions:
To customize your Cannoli Poke Cake and add a personal touch, consider incorporating some optional additions:
- Chopped pistachios: Add a nutty crunch and vibrant color.
- Orange zest: For a hint of citrus flavor.
- Dark chocolate shavings: Enhance the chocolate flavor and presentation.
- Candied fruit: Add a festive touch and extra sweetness.
These optional additions allow you to tailor the cake to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for an extra layer of flavor, a touch of color, or a unique twist, these suggestions offer plenty of flexibility.
Tips for Success:
Achieving the best results with this recipe requires a few key tips and tricks:
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding the frosting to prevent melting and ensure a smooth finish.
- Use high-quality ricotta and mascarpone cheeses for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overmix the frosting, as mascarpone cheese can become watery if overworked.
- Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator to set the flavors and ensure easy slicing.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your Cannoli Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time. The attention to detail and small adjustments can make a big difference in the final dessert.
Instructions:
Creating Cannoli Poke Cake is a straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve delicious results:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick baking spray.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Add the dry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and egg whites to a medium-size (2-3 quarts) mixing bowl. Mix with a handheld mixer on medium speed until well combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 23-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes away clean. (Keep in mind that all ovens cook differently, so begin checking the cake at 18-20 minutes.)
- Poke the Holes: Use either the back of a wooden spoon to poke holes about 1 inch apart.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Immediately drizzle ¾ cup of the sweetened condensed milk into the holes of the cake and over the entire surface. Carefully use a spoon or offset spatula to smooth the sweetened condensed milk over the cake. Chill, uncovered, in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, or until completely cooled.
- Prepare the Frosting: Using either a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment or a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, mix together the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, ½ cup of the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, almond extract, and optional ground cinnamon. Mix just until well combined. It is very important not to overmix, as the mascarpone cheese can become watery. Beat just until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Lower the mixer speed to low, and add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle mini semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the frosting.
- Serve and Enjoy: Optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving.
These instructions are designed to be easy to follow, even for novice bakers. The step-by-step process ensures that each element of the cake is perfectly prepared.
Description:
Cannoli Poke Cake is a visual and gustatory delight. The moist and tender cake base is infused with sweetened condensed milk, creating a rich and flavorful foundation. The creamy ricotta and mascarpone frosting, speckled with mini chocolate chips, adds a luscious layer of indulgence. The cake’s surface is beautifully decorated with chocolate chips and optional powdered sugar, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any dessert table. Each bite offers a perfect balance of moist cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy chocolate chips, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that is sure to impress and delight.
Nutritional Information:
For those mindful of their nutritional intake, here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (assuming 12 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 6g
This cake provides a good balance of flavor and indulgence, making it a satisfying treat. While it is certainly a sweet indulgence, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Cannoli Poke Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the rich flavors of a classic cannoli with the convenience of a poke cake. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a delicious dessert. We highly recommend giving this recipe a try and experimenting with the optional additions to make it your own. Enjoy the process of baking and savoring this delectable cake, and don’t forget to share your experience with others.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence:
While Cannoli Poke Cake is undeniably rich and indulgent, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Embrace healthful indulgence by practicing portion control and balancing this dessert with other nutritious foods. Consider serving smaller slices alongside fresh fruit or a light sorbet to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Remember, finding a balance between treating yourself and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to healthful indulgence. By making mindful choices and savoring each bite, you can enjoy this delicious cake while staying on track with your health goals.