If you have a soft spot for all things sweet and cinnamon-spiced, then this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite showstopper. Imagine the moist, tender crumb of a vanilla cake infused with rich, buttery cinnamon syrup that seeps into every bite, crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting and a delicate sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. This cake captures all the irresistible flavors of a homemade cinnamon roll but with the ease and convenience of a simple poke cake, making it perfect for gatherings, cozy weekend treats, or anytime you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and that signature cinnamon roll warmth.
- Vanilla cake mix: The base of our cake providing a light, fluffy structure that soaks up the cinnamon syrup beautifully.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Typically required by the cake mix, these keep the cake moist and tender.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Adds sweetness and a creamy, rich liquid that seeps perfectly into the holes.
- Melted salted butter (4 tablespoons): Enhances richness and complements the brown sugar and cinnamon syrup.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness essential for that cinnamon roll flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The heart of the cake’s spice, infusing warmth with every bite.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): For the frosting, providing tangy, velvety smoothness that balances the sweet cake perfectly.
- Butter (1/3 cup, softened): Adds richness and creaminess to the frosting’s texture.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and adds aromatic depth.
- Heavy cream or milk (1 tablespoon): Helps thin the frosting slightly for flawless spreading.
- Cinnamon sugar: A sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and extra cinnamon zing.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the vanilla cake mix exactly as the box instructs, usually with eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a well-greased 9×13-inch pan, then bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This will be your light and fluffy canvas to soak up all those amazing flavors.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Warm Cake
While the cake is still warm, grab the handle of a wooden spoon and gently poke holes evenly all over the surface. These holes aren’t just for fun—they create little tunnels for the cinnamon syrup to sink deep into the cake, infusing it with moist, gooey goodness.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Syrup
Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, melted salted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until everything is beautifully blended. This syrup is pure magic and will soak into those tiny holes, making the cake luscious and cinnamon-packed.
Step 4: Pour the Syrup Over the Cake
Slowly pour the cinnamon syrup right over the cake, letting it seep into every hole you made. This step is key to getting that signature sticky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. After pouring, let the cake cool completely—this helps the syrup set inside.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese with the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract and the heavy cream or milk to reach a spreadable consistency. This frosting is wonderfully tangy and creamy, perfectly balancing the sweet cinnamon syrup.
Step 6: Frost and Finish the Cake
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over your cooled cake. For an extra touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes to let it set and help blend all those flavors together.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on the frosting not only adds a hint of extra cinnamon flavor but also provides a delightful slight crunch. For an elegant touch, a few toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce can take the presentation to the next level without overpowering those signature flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement its richness. A fresh fruit salad with berries can provide a tart contrast that balances the sweetness, making it a versatile treat for any season.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe into small squares and serve on decorative trays with mini forks for easy grabbing. You can also transform it into parfaits by layering pieces of the cake with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced apple compote in clear glasses, highlighting the beautiful layers and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, and the cake stays moist and fresh for up to 4 days. Always keep it chilled due to the cream cheese frosting to maintain safety and quality.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake either whole or in individual slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cake keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the frosting and syrup. If you prefer it a little warmer, allow slices to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for a softer bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While vanilla works best to highlight the cinnamon syrup, yellow cake mix or even spice cake could add exciting variations. Just keep in mind the flavors will shift slightly, so adjust cinnamon and sugar quantities if needed.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and non-dairy milk alternatives to make a vegan-friendly or lactose-free version. The texture might be a little different, but the flavors will still shine.
Can I make the cinnamon syrup without sweetened condensed milk?
The sweetened condensed milk is key for that rich, gooey texture, but if necessary, you could substitute with a mixture of evaporated milk and sugar or use a homemade caramel sauce, though it may change the consistency slightly.
How long does the cake need to chill before serving?
At least 30 minutes of chilling allows the syrup to set into the cake and the frosting to firm up, making it easier to cut and ensuring every bite is perfectly moist and flavorful.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Use two 9×13-inch pans if doubling. Just be mindful of baking times and check doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking. The syrup and frosting amounts should also be doubled to keep the balance perfect.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is a no-fail way to bring bakery-worthy flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort. Every slice offers that cozy, nostalgic cinnamon roll taste but with a fun, moist cake twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a delightful treat that’s sure to brighten your day and become a regular in your baking repertoire.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the moist softness of vanilla cake with the rich flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and cream cheese frosting. Poking holes in the warm cake allows a sweet cinnamon-infused mixture to seep in, creating a luscious, gooey texture reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls. Topped with smooth cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, this dessert is perfect for any occasion and easy to make.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- Ingredients called for on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
Cinnamon Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons melted salted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Frosting
- 1/2 block (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
Topping
- Cinnamon sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake Cake: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix package instructions. Prepare the vanilla cake mix by following the directions on the box, including adding the required eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, usually about 30–35 minutes.
- Poke Holes in Warm Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven and while it is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all across the surface of the cake. This will allow the cinnamon mixture to soak in.
- Prepare Cinnamon Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, melted salted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Mixture Over Cake: Slowly pour the cinnamon mixture over the cake, making sure the liquid seeps down into the holes you poked earlier. This infusion gives the cake a moist, gooey texture. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding.
- Make Cream Cheese Frosting: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and heavy cream or milk, beating until the frosting is spreadable and silky.
- Frost the Cake: Evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the fully cooled cake with a spatula to create a thick, luscious topping.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the frosted cake if desired to add extra flavor and a slight crunch.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set and flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is warm when poking holes; this ensures the cinnamon mixture seeps properly.
- Use softened cream cheese and butter for a smooth frosting without lumps.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the cinnamon in the filling mixture.
- For easier cutting and serving, chill the cake thoroughly before slicing.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
