If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your favorite bakery, then look no further than this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on two classics combined into one irresistible treat. Picture a moist vanilla cake, generously poked and soaked with a cinnamon-spiced filling, then topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. This cake is comfort, nostalgia, and pure joy all rolled into one slice, ready to brighten up any occasion or simply satisfy your sweet tooth craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and ensures your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe turns out exactly as you imagine. Each element plays a crucial role—from the moist vanilla cake base to the luscious, cinnamon-swirled filling, right down to the creamy, tangy frosting that brings everything together beautifully.
- Vanilla (white) cake mix: The base of our cake, providing a soft and fluffy texture with a gentle sweetness.
- Butter: Used both in the filling and frosting, it adds richness and smoothness.
- Light brown sugar: Packed with subtle molasses notes, it deepens the cinnamon filling’s flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that fills this cake with warmth and that iconic cinnamon roll essence.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic depth to the filling and frosting.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Provides the perfect creamy sweetness that soaks into the cake holes, keeping it moist and decadent.
- Cream cheese: Softened to creamy perfection for the frosting, balancing sweetness with a touch of tang.
- Clear vanilla flavoring: Keeps the frosting silky white while adding a subtle vanilla punch.
- Half-and-half cream: A splash of creaminess that helps smooth out the frosting’s texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a luscious spreadable consistency.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Start by preparing your vanilla cake mix according to the package directions. Once your cake is perfectly baked and has cooled slightly, get ready to give it its signature poke treatment. Using the back of a spoon, gently poke holes all over the cake’s surface. This isn’t just for looks—the holes allow the luscious cinnamon filling to seep deep inside, making every bite moist and flavorful.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Next, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Once that heavenly mixture is ready, add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until completely incorporated. This rich filling is what transforms your ordinary cake into a spectacular cinnamon roll-inspired delight.
Step 3: Soak the Cake
Pour the warm cinnamon filling evenly over the surface of the cake, making sure it seeps into all those holes you poked earlier. Allow the cake to sit for about 15 minutes so it can soak up all that sweet, spiced goodness, turning each forkful into a melt-in-your-mouth experience reminiscent of fresh cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is absorbing the filling, whip up the cream cheese frosting. Beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until perfectly smooth. Add the clear vanilla flavoring and half-and-half cream, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar. Keep mixing until your frosting is creamy, fluffy, and ready to crown your cake like a velvety cloud.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Finally, spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. The creamy topping complements the warmly spiced filling and moist vanilla cake beautifully. Slice into generous pieces and get ready for all those “mmms” and requests for seconds. Your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is now complete and ready to impress!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding just the right garnish can elevate this cake to celebration-level status. Consider a light dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans for a subtle crunch. Freshly whipped cream dolloped on the side can add luscious creaminess, while a drizzle of caramel sauce brings another layer of indulgence that pairs beautifully with the cake’s cinnamon notes.
Side Dishes
This decadent poke cake shines on its own but pairing it thoughtfully can make your dessert moment even more special. A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices and creamy frosting like a dream. Alternatively, a cup of rich coffee or a warm chai latte can echo those cinnamon flavors and add a cozy vibe perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings where presentation matters, consider serving your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe in individual mason jars layered with cake and frosting for a charming twist. You can also cut it into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter with cinnamon sticks and edible flowers for an eye-catching display. These small touches make this cake feel extra special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is a gift you definitely want to keep. Store any uneaten cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve the freshness of the frosting and keep the cake moist. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy every last crumb.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this cake ahead of time or save leftovers for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For best results, freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
When it comes to reheating, you don’t want to melt that glorious frosting! Instead, bring refrigerated or thawed cake slices to room temperature before serving. If you prefer warm cake, microwave individual slices for 10 to 15 seconds—long enough to enjoy it warm, but not so long that the frosting loses its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake instead of box mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for convenience with a vanilla cake mix, a homemade vanilla cake will work beautifully and add your personal touch. Just make sure the cake is moist and sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Is the filling mixture served warm or cold?
The filling is poured warm over the cake, which helps it to soak in and infuse with flavor. The warmth also softens the cake and makes every bite deliciously tender.
Can I substitute cream cheese frosting with a simple glaze?
You can, but the cream cheese frosting is part of what makes this cake feel like a cinnamon roll. A simple glaze could work, but the tangy cream cheese offers balance to all that richness and sweetness.
How many servings does this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe make?
This recipe yields about 15 servings, perfect for a crowd or to share across several days of indulgence.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix and ensure all other ingredients such as the cake mix and vanilla flavoring are gluten-free certified to keep the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe that brings comfort, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia all at once. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat to yourself, this cake never fails to delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the warm, cozy flavors that make every bite feel like a little celebration in your mouth.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
Description
This decadent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the convenience of a boxed vanilla cake mix with a luscious cinnamon-sweetened filling soaked into the cake itself, topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Perfect for satisfying your cinnamon roll cravings in cake form, this dessert is moist, flavorful, and delightful for gatherings or special occasions.
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: Preheat the oven and prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Use the back of a spoon to poke holes evenly throughout the entire cake surface to allow for the filling to seep in.
- Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth and combined. Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue stirring until the mixture is fully blended and warm.
- Soak the Cake: Pour the warm filling mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps deeply into the holes you created. Allow the cake to absorb the filling for about 15 minutes, which ensures maximum moisture and flavor inside the cake.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Add the clear vanilla flavoring and half-and-half cream, then gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake has absorbed the filling and is cool enough, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice the cake into 15 servings and serve immediately or chill slightly before serving for the best texture.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cake is still warm but not hot when poking holes and pouring the filling so it absorbs properly.
- Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for a smooth frosting texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can sprinkle extra cinnamon on top of the frosting for a garnish.
- This recipe uses a boxed cake mix for convenience but can be adapted with a homemade white cake recipe if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
