Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake offers a delightful way to enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls in a simple and moist cake. Each bite is filled with a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling that seeps into the cake layers, topped with a creamy and smooth homemade frosting that elevates every mouthful.

I first made this cake for a family gathering when I wanted the flavor of cinnamon rolls without spending hours rolling dough. It quickly became a beloved dessert for birthdays and potlucks.

Ingredients List

• White cake mix: for a tender and fluffy cake base choose one that you enjoy the flavor of since it’s the foundation
• Butter: is essential for the filling to create richness and help the sugar melt smoothly
• Light brown sugar: packed to add moist caramel notes to the filling pick a soft-packed brand for best results
• Ground cinnamon: as the star spice enhances warmth and sweetness opt for fresh cinnamon for maximum flavor
• Clear vanilla extract: keeps the frosting white and fresh tasting use regular vanilla extract if you don’t have clear vanilla
• Sweetened condensed milk: adds creaminess and sweetness to the filling try to avoid low-fat versions for best texture
• Cream cheese: softened for tangy, luscious frosting full flavor comes from using full-fat cream cheese
• Powdered sugar: for a smooth and sweet frosting sift it if lumpy to avoid gritty texture
• Half and half: helps loosen the frosting to a spreadable consistency use heavy cream for a richer version

Cooking Steps

Prepare The Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9x13 baking dish with baking spray. Prepare the vanilla cake mix exactly as directed on the box. Keep an eye on the cake and begin checking for doneness a few minutes before the time suggested. Once baked, allow the cake to cool until it is still just slightly warm to the touch.

Poke The Cake:

Using the handle of a silicone spatula or similar tool, gently poke holes in the cake about a half inch apart. Doing this while the cake is warm helps to avoid tearing the surface while creating spaces for the filling to sink in.

Make The Filling:

Combine butter, packed light brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk in a heat-safe bowl. Whisk everything together and then heat in the microwave in one-minute intervals, stirring between, until all sugar clumps dissolve and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Add The Filling:

Slowly ladle the warm filling evenly over the top of the poked cake, allowing it to soak into the holes so every bite is moist and flavorful.

Prepare The Frosting:

In a mixing bowl, cream together softened cream cheese and butter on medium speed until smooth. Lower the speed and add clear vanilla flavoring, half and half, and powdered sugar gradually, a half cup at a time. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy but do not rush to avoid a gritty texture from powdered sugar.

Frost The Cake:

Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the filled cake using a silicone spatula or an offset frosting knife for a smooth finish.

Serve Immediately:

Serve immediately or chill and enjoy cold, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

The cinnamon and cream cheese combo always brings my kids running for seconds, making it a true favorite in our home.

Best Storage Practices

Store this cake covered in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist. It will keep well for up to four days. For the best texture, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving if you prefer softness over chilled firmness. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Ingredient Swaps

You can swap the white cake mix for yellow or butter cake mix for a richer flavor base If clear vanilla is not available, pure vanilla extract works well but will give the frosting a light cream color Use heavy cream instead of half and half if you want a slightly richer frosting texture Try coconut sugar instead of brown sugar in the filling for a deeper caramel note and a hint of coconut flavor

Serving Pairings

Serve warmed with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert Pair with a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee to balance sweetness and spice Add fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears on the side to complement cinnamon flavors and add brightness

Seasonal Upgrades

Add a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch and nutty richness Stir in diced apples or pears into the filling for an autumn-inspired twist Top the frosting with a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce to make it feel extra festive

This poke cake is one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together quickly. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something indulgent without all the effort of traditional cinnamon rolls. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ What is the purpose of poking holes in the cake?

Poking holes allows the cinnamon-butter filling to soak deeply into the cake, enhancing moisture and infusing rich flavors throughout.

→ Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of clear vanilla flavoring in the frosting?

Yes, regular vanilla extract works well but may slightly alter the frosting's color, making it less white.

→ How can I tell when the cake is done baking?

Check a few minutes before the box’s suggested time. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

→ Is it necessary to cool the cake before applying the filling?

The cake should be slightly warm when poked and when the filling is poured over, which helps the flavors absorb better.

→ Can this dessert be served chilled?

Yes, chilling the cake allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld, offering a different but equally delicious texture.