Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, 1 cup of milk, 3 eggs, and the melted butter. Mix until well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.

Step 3

Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and pour the cake batter into it.

Step 4

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5

While the cake is baking, prepare the coffee-Kahlua mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, brewed coffee, Kahlua, cocoa powder, and espresso powder until well combined. Set aside.

Step 6

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 7

While the cake is still warm, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. Make sure to only poke about 3/4 of the way down, avoiding the bottom of the cake.

Step 8

Slowly pour the coffee-Kahlua mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Continue pouring until the mixture is completely absorbed.

Step 9

Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 10

To prepare the mascarpone topping, beat the mascarpone cheese in a mixing bowl for approximately 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.

Step 11

Add the heavy cream to the bowl and continue beating for about 5 minutes or until the mixture forms stiff peaks and resembles a frosting consistency.

Step 12

Gently fold in 3 tbsp of Kahlua, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 1/2 tsp of espresso powder until well combined.

Step 13

Remove the cake from the refrigerator and spread the mascarpone topping evenly over the chilled cake.

Step 14

For an elegant finishing touch, dust the cake with cocoa powder.

Step 15

Slice and serve this luscious Tiramisu Poke Cake to savor the delectable flavors.