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Cannoli Poke Cake

This dessert features a moist vanilla cake infused with sweet ricotta and vanilla flavors, topped with creamy ricotta-based frosting and a hint of cinnamon. The cake is poked with holes to absorb the flavorful filling, creating a layered appearance with a tender, fluffy texture and a sweet, creamy finish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese smooth and creamy
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon optional, for flavor
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for the frosting

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Toothpick or skewer
  • Spatula
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour and half of the sugar to combine evenly.
  2. Add the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix everything on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. While the cake is baking, prepare the ricotta filling. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  5. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes about an inch apart all over the cake surface.
  6. Pour the ricotta mixture over the warm cake, focusing on pouring into the holes to allow the filling to seep through. Spread any remaining filling evenly across the top.
  7. Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the filling set. This helps the cake absorb the ricotta flavor and become irresistibly tender.
  8. Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. The tender, moist cake paired with the creamy ricotta filling resembles a cannoli in every bite.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle additional cinnamon or powdered sugar on top before serving.