A luscious, chocolate-studded cannoli filling separates the tender vanilla layers of this rich cake, which starts with a package mix. It’s best when served well chilled.

  • Total Time
    Prep: 30 min. + chilling Bake: 25 min. + cooling
  • Makes

    12 servings

    Ingredients

      • 1 package French vanilla cake mix (regular size)
      • FILLING:
      • 1 carton (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
      • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
      • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
      • 1 teaspoon almond extract
      • 1 teaspoon rum extract
      • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
      • 2 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
      • FROSTING:
      • 2 cartons (8 ounces each) mascarpone cheese
      • 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
      • 1/4 cup whole milk
      • 2 teaspoons almond extract
      • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
      • 1 cup sliced almonds
      • 2 tablespoons miniature semisweet chocolate chips

    Directions

    • Prepare and bake cake mix according to package directions, using two greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
    • In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon and extracts; stir in chocolate. In another bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, confectioners’ sugar, milk and extracts on medium speed until creamy (do not overmix).
    • Place one cake layer on a serving plate; spread with 1 cup filling. Top with second cake layer. Spread remaining filling over top of cake to within 1 in. of edges. Frost sides and top edge of cake with 2 cups frosting.
    • Press almonds into sides of cake. Sprinkle chocolate chips over top. Refrigerate until serving.
    Test Kitchen Tip:
  • We loved the flavor of the ricotta filling so much, in one test we doubled it and used the extra filling instead of the frosting. Either way, you’ll have a cake that is sure to impress.

    Nutrition Facts

    1 slice: 591 calories, 37g fat (15g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 367mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.