There’s something truly magical about desserts that combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the nostalgia of poke cake. Enter the delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake—a decadent treat layered with creamy goodness and a hint of spice. This dessert not only boasts a glorious aroma but also delivers an irresistible taste that captures the essence of everyone’s favorite breakfast treat in every forkful.
Furthermore, making this sumptuous cinnamon-infused cake is incredibly easy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a showstopper that will impress both family and friends. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this poke cake transforms the traditional cinnamon roll into a delightful slice of heaven, ensuring that each bite is as enjoyable as the last. Get ready to indulge in a dessert experience like no other!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake:
To create a delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake that captures the essence of classic cinnamon rolls, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix (or yellow cake mix for a richer flavor)
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar (or dark brown sugar for a richer taste)
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (to reach desired glaze consistency)
Begin by preparing the cake mix as directed on the box. Once baked, poke holes into the warm cake and drizzle in the sweetened condensed milk. This step ensures each bite is imbued with flavor and moisture. For a balanced sweet experience reminiscent of a cinnamon roll, whip up a cream cheese frosting. Mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just enough milk or cream to create a smooth glaze. Enjoy this indulgent treat with family and friends! For more delicious cake ideas, check out this delightful pumpkin cake recipe.

How to prepare Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake:
Begin your adventure with this delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake by preparing your chosen cake mix according to package instructions. Whether you opt for vanilla, butter, or yellow cake, the base is key to achieving a soft and fluffy texture. Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before gently poking holes across the surface with the handle of a wooden spoon.
Next, melt some unsalted butter and mix it with light or dark brown sugar and ground cinnamon to create a gooey, aromatic sauce. Drizzle this mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes, mimicking that beloved cinnamon roll filling. Then, generously pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake while still warm for extra moisture.
For the frosting, blend full-fat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, creating a creamy glaze. You can thin it with milk or heavy cream for a pourable consistency. Drizzle this over the cake once it’s cooled. The cinnamon crumb banana bread serves as a perfect inspiration for those who love cinnamon-infused desserts. Enjoy this easy-to-make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake that’s sure to impress with each delicious bite!
Creative Variations of Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake:
Elevate your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake by experimenting with delightful variations that add unique flavors while keeping the core essence intact. One exciting twist is to infuse your cake with pumpkin. Try incorporating a spiced pumpkin better than cake recipe to create a seasonal treat that dances on your taste buds. For a refreshing change, add a lemon blueberry filling, which can bring an intriguing citrus contrast to the sweet cinnamon layers.
Don’t forget about toppings! Drizzling a creamy glaze or a rich mocha cheesecake topping can enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile. For more indulgence, consider using a flaky and sweet filling, similar to stuffed crescent rolls, layering it within the cake structure. For further inspiration, explore this fantastic recipe for a Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake for new techniques and ideas. With these creative variations, your poke cake will delight anyone fortunate enough to enjoy a slice!
Frosting Options for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake:
When it comes to enhancing your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, frosting options abound, allowing you to customize this delicious treat to your preference. A classic cream cheese frosting provides a tangy balance that complements the cake’s sweetness, making each bite a delightful experience. Alternatively, a simple vanilla glaze can add a light touch, allowing the flavors of the cake to shine through. For something with a twist, consider drizzling a spiced caramel frosting—a perfect match for the warm cinnamon notes in the cake.
If you’re in the mood for something seasonal, try pairing it with a luscious gingerbread frosting, inspired by festive flavors. You might enjoy this delightful Gingerbread Pear Cake recipe that can inspire your frosting creations. Whichever option you choose, these frostings will elevate your awesome Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake into an unforgettable dessert experience!
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake:
When it comes to serving your delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, presentation and pairing play key roles in enhancing the experience. Start with a generous drizzle of cream cheese frosting on top for that iconic cinnamon roll taste. Couple it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a rich and creamy contrast. This cake shines at any gathering, especially paired with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte.
For a seasonal twist, consider serving slices alongside a slice of moist Pumpkin Better Than Cake, a flavorful alternative that complements the sweet and spiced notes of the poke cake. Adding fresh fruit, like sliced apples or berries, can provide brightness and acidity, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake becomes a centerpiece that invites everyone back for seconds while enchanting their palate. Enjoy this cake with friends and family for an unforgettable treat!
Storage tips for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake:
To maintain the freshness of your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. This way, you can easily enjoy a delightful treat later. Speaking of delightful, try our Cinnamon Crumb Banana Bread for another tasty spin on cinnamon flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is a Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?
A Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls with a moist cake base. The cake is poked with holes and infused with a sweet cinnamon syrup, resulting in an incredibly flavorful treat that features creamy frosting reminiscent of the icing on classic cinnamon rolls.
How do you make the cake moist?
To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake remains moist, it’s essential to soak it with a rich cinnamon syrup after baking. This syrup seeps into the holes you’ve made, keeping the cake fluffy and delicious. Using room temperature ingredients and not overmixing the batter will also help achieve that perfect texture.
Can I use a boxed cake mix?
Absolutely! Using a boxed cake mix can save time and still yield a delicious Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. Simply follow the instructions on the box and proceed with poking holes and adding the cinnamon syrup for that signature flavor.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese frosting?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can use whipped cream, vanilla buttercream, or even a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Each option will give a unique twist to your cinnamon-flavored cake.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftover Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It should remain fresh for about 3-4 days. For optimal flavor, allow it to sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Are there any variations I can try?
Certainly! You can experiment by adding nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the batter. For a fall-inspired twist, consider drizzling your cake with caramel sauce or pairing it with a cozy cup of pumpkin spice latte, similar to the comforting flavors found in our Pumpkin Crepes with Cinnamon Mascarpone.
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Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Irresistibly Delicious and Easy to Make!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the bliss of a Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll that combines a moist cake with rich, gooey filling and creamy frosting.
Ingredients
Cake Mix
Brown Sugar
Ground Cinnamon
Butter
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Cream Cheese
Powdered Sugar
Vanilla Extract
Milk or Heavy Cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions and prepare a baking dish.
- Bake the cake mix according to package instructions, and remove it from the oven once cooked.
- While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top using a fork.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and pour this mixture into the holes of the cake.
- Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the entire cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the cake cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and serve.
Notes
For an extra touch, sprinkle additional cinnamon on top of the frosting or add chopped nuts.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, Dessert, Cake, Cinnamon, Cream Cheese Frosting