Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This poke cake takes the simplicity of a boxed cake mix and turns it into a cinnamon roll-inspired treat that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious. The cake is soaked with a rich cinnamon and brown sugar filling and topped with a creamy, fluffy cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for those who love cinnamon rolls but want a twist on the traditional.

Ingredients

For The Cake:

1 box of vanilla (white) cake mix, prepared as directed on the box

For The Filling Mixture:

5 tablespoons of butter
½ cup of light brown sugar, packed
3 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
2½ teaspoons vanilla extract
14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk

For The Frosting:

8 tablespoons (½ cup) of butter, softened
8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons of clear vanilla flavoring
2 teaspoons of half-and-half cream
2½ cups of powdered sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, use the back of a spoon to poke holes throughout the cake.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth, then pour in the sweetened condensed milk and stir until fully combined.
Pour the filling mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes you made earlier. Let the cake sit to absorb the mixture for about 15 minutes.
For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add in the vanilla, half-and-half cream, and powdered sugar, and continue to beat until creamy and fluffy.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Slice and serve!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 15 slices
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

You can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for added texture and flavor.
For a different flavor profile, try using chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla.
Use a store-bought cream cheese frosting for a quicker option.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cinnamon roll poke cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds or enjoy it cold.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?

Yes! You can swap the vanilla cake mix for any flavor you prefer, such as chocolate or even spice cake.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

3. Can I freeze the poke cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving and then frost.

4. What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can substitute it with a homemade mixture of regular milk and sugar, though it might alter the flavor slightly.

5. Can I add extra cinnamon to the filling?

You can add more cinnamon to the filling if you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor.

6. How do I make the frosting less sweet?

To make the frosting less sweet, reduce the powdered sugar and add a bit more cream cheese or vanilla extract for flavor.

7. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cake mix and substitute the butter and cream cheese with vegan versions.

8. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for the frosting?

Yes, a hand mixer will work just fine for making the frosting.

9. Is the poke cake best served warm or cold?

It’s delicious either way, but the cinnamon roll poke cake is typically served chilled to allow the frosting to set properly.

10. How can I make this cake extra festive?

For special occasions, decorate the cake with sprinkles, edible glitter, or seasonal toppings to match the theme.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for cinnamon roll lovers who want something a little different. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you’re serving it at a party, as a family treat, or for a special occasion, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation!

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 15 slices
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the texture of a moist cake. Soaked in a rich cinnamon and brown sugar filling and topped with fluffy cream cheese frosting, this easy dessert is perfect for any occasion and sure to please cinnamon roll lovers.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake:
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Once baked, let the cake cool slightly. Use the back of a spoon to poke holes throughout the cake.
Make the Filling:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until fully combined.
Soak the Cake:
- Pour the filling mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let the cake absorb the mixture for about 15 minutes.
Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add vanilla, half-and-half, and powdered sugar, continuing to beat until creamy and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve!

Notes

Variations:

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra texture.

Use a chocolate or spice cake mix for a different flavor profile.

Opt for store-bought cream cheese frosting for a quicker option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American