If you have a soft spot for cinnamon rolls and poke cakes, get ready to fall head over heels for this extraordinary Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe. Imagine tender vanilla cake generously pierced to soak in a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling, topped with dreamy cream cheese frosting—the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy goodness in every bite. This cake feels like a warm cinnamon hug and is guaranteed to become your go-to dessert for family gatherings or when you simply crave something unforgettable. Let me walk you through every delicious detail of making this show-stopping treat that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is magic made simple. The ingredients combine to create layers of flavor and texture that are both familiar and absolutely irresistible. Each component—from the vanilla cake base to the rich cinnamon filling and fluffy cream cheese frosting—plays an essential role in building the perfect Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe.
- Vanilla cake mix: A simple boxed mix saves time and provides a light, sweet foundation that’s perfect for soaking up the filling.
- Butter: Needed both in the filling and frosting to add richness and a velvety texture.
- Light brown sugar: Gives the filling its caramel-like sweetness and deep, molasses flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers the signature warm and comforting taste.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances both the filling and frosting with a smooth, fragrant note.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious sweetness and helps the filling soak deep into the cake holes.
- Cream cheese: Creates the tangy, creamy base for the frosting that balances out the sweetness.
- Half-and-half cream: Lightens the frosting for a fluffy, spreadable consistency.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without any grittiness, allowing it to melt beautifully on your tongue.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Vanilla Cake
Start by preparing your vanilla cake mix exactly as directed on the package. Once baked, give the cake a moment to cool so it’s warm but not hot, which is key for the next step. Then, take the back of a spoon and poke deep holes all over the surface of the cake—this is what allows the indulgent filling to seep in and create that signature moist texture.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cinnamon Filling
On the stovetop, melt butter over medium heat, then stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until everything blends into a smooth, fragrant sauce. Remove from heat and slowly add the sweetened condensed milk, whisking until fully combined. This mixture is pure magic, rich and sweet with just the right amount of cinnamon kick that will soak beautifully into the cake holes.
Step 3: Pour and Soak
Gently drizzle the warm filling over the entire cake, making sure to cover every inch so that it can sink into those poked holes. This step transforms your cake from ordinary to extraordinary by infusing it with deep, sticky cinnamon flavor. Let the cake rest for about 15 minutes so it absorbs all the deliciousness.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake soaks, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until silky smooth. Then add vanilla flavoring, half-and-half cream, and powdered sugar, beating until the frosting becomes fluffy and creamy. This frosting is the perfect tangy finish that provides wonderful contrast to the spiced filling.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
Once your cake has soaked up the cinnamon filling and cooled to room temperature, spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly on top. Slice into generous portions and watch the smiles as this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe steals the show at your next gathering.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your cake with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a few chopped pecans to add a delightful crunch and rustic appeal. Freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the look and texture, making your dessert feel that much more special.
Side Dishes
This poke cake pairs beautifully with warm beverages like cinnamon-spiced coffee or chai tea to echo the cozy flavors. For a refreshing balance, try serving it alongside fresh fruit salad—berries or apple slices complement the cinnamon notes wonderfully.
Creamative Ways to Present
You can turn individual portions of this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe into parfaits by layering cake chunks, frosting, and a sprinkle of cinnamon in clear glasses. Alternatively, dust the top with powdered sugar or add a few edible flowers to make your cake table the talk of the party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the frosting from drying out. Leftovers taste even better after a day as the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing
The Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe freezes well when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, heat individual slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the frosting and enhances the gooey filling without compromising taste.
FAQs
Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a box mix?
Absolutely! While a boxed vanilla mix saves time, you can use your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe and follow the same steps to create an equally delicious Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe.
Is it possible to use a different filling flavor?
Yes! While cinnamon is classic here, you could experiment with flavors like pumpkin spice or caramel for the filling to put your own twist on the recipe.
How should I store the cake if I don’t have a refrigerator?
This cake contains cream cheese frosting, so refrigeration is recommended for food safety and freshness. If refrigeration is not available, enjoy the cake within a few hours of serving.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute the vanilla cake mix with a gluten-free version and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. It will still deliver the luscious Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe taste everyone loves.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, the cake remains fresh and moist for up to 4 days. Beyond that, it’s best to consume or freeze for optimal texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is genuinely one of those desserts that makes you feel warm inside the moment you take a bite. Its effortless appeal and deeply comforting flavors make it a must-try for anyone who loves classic cinnamon rolls but wants something uniquely special. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this sweet delight—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines a moist vanilla cake base with a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling soaked right into the cake and topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a sweet treat that tastes just like a cinnamon roll but with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box vanilla (white) cake mix, prepared as directed on the box
For the Filling Mixture:
- 5 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
For the Frosting:
- 8 tablespoons (½ cup) butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons clear vanilla flavoring
- 2 teaspoons half-and-half cream
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions, baking it until done. Allow the cake to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.
- Poke the Cake: Use the back of a spoon to poke holes evenly all over the surface of the slightly cooled cake, creating spaces for the filling to seep into.
- Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Then add the sweetened condensed milk and mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Soak the Cake: Pour the warm filling mixture evenly over the poked cake, allowing the liquid to seep into the holes. Let the cake absorb the mixture for about 15 minutes before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Add the clear vanilla flavoring, half-and-half cream, and gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting is fluffy and evenly combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake once it has absorbed the filling and is cooled enough to handle. Slice into 15 servings and enjoy!
Notes
- Allow the cake to cool enough before poking to avoid crumbling but still warm enough to absorb the filling well.
- For best results, use room temperature butter and cream cheese for the frosting to achieve a smooth texture.
- This cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- To make it easier to slice, chill the cake slightly after frosting.
- You can substitute light brown sugar with dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor in the filling.
