Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is everything you love about a classic cinnamon roll—but in the form of an ultra-moist, flavor-packed cake. With warm cinnamon swirls, a luscious cream cheese glaze, and pockets of gooey goodness in every bite, this dessert takes all the best parts of a cinnamon roll and transforms them into an easy-to-make cake that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a sweet treat after dinner, this poke cake delivers bakery-quality flavor with minimal effort.

What sets this cake apart is the technique: after baking a simple vanilla or yellow cake, it’s “poked” all over to allow a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling to seep in, infusing the entire dessert with rich flavor and moisture. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting or glaze, it strikes the perfect balance between tender cake and indulgent filling. It’s like a shortcut to cinnamon roll heaven—without the yeast, rolling, or rising time.

Best of all, it starts with a cake mix, so it’s foolproof even for beginner bakers. If you’re a fan of warm spices, soft textures, and creamy toppings, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is guaranteed to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy Yet Impressive: Starts with a cake mix but looks and tastes homemade.
2. Packed with Flavor: Cinnamon-sugar swirls and cream cheese glaze in every bite.
3. Ultra Moist Texture: The poke method ensures gooey richness throughout.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for brunch, holidays, or potlucks.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be made in advance and gets even better the next day.

Ingredients

• Yellow or vanilla cake mix
• Eggs
• Oil
• Water or milk
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Optional toppings: chopped pecans, whipped cream, extra cinnamon

Variations

Pumpkin Spice Version

Add pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice to the cake mix for a fall twist.

Maple Glaze

Replace vanilla in the glaze with maple extract for a deeper flavor.

Nutty Delight

Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Caramel Drizzle

Add a caramel sauce drizzle on top for extra decadence.

Chocolate Cinnamon

Stir mini chocolate chips into the cake batter for a rich variation.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Prepare and bake the cake according to the package instructions using eggs, oil, and milk or water.

Step 2

While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk with brown sugar and cinnamon until smooth.

Step 4

Pour the cinnamon mixture evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.

Step 5

Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting.

Step 6

In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7

Spread or drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake.

Step 8

Optional: Top with extra cinnamon, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of icing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Poke deep, wide holes so the filling soaks in well.
• Let the cake cool before frosting to avoid melting the glaze.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
• Add a touch of cinnamon to the frosting for extra warmth.
• Chill before serving for neater slices and enhanced flavor.

How to Serve

• Serve warm or chilled with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Cut into squares and top with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Sprinkle with powdered sugar or cinnamon just before serving.
• Serve as a brunch cake alongside fresh fruit and eggs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake stays moist and flavorful.

Freezing

Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired.

FAQs

1. What kind of cake mix should I use?

Yellow or vanilla cake mix works best for a classic cinnamon roll flavor.

2. Can I make this cake from scratch?

Absolutely—just use your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe as the base.

3. Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?

It’s key for the gooey texture, but you can substitute with heavy cream and brown sugar if needed.

4. Can I use canned frosting?

Yes, but homemade cream cheese frosting gives the best flavor.

5. How far in advance can I make this?

You can make it up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve.

6. Can I serve this cake warm?

Yes! It’s delicious slightly warm—just be sure the frosting is added afterward.

7. Is this cake too sweet?

It’s rich, but the cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness well.

8. Can I use other types of milk?

Whole milk can replace water in the cake mix, but sweetened condensed milk is needed for the filling.

9. What if I don’t have a wooden spoon to poke holes?

Use the handle of any thick utensil or a straw.

10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes—bake in a larger pan or two 9×13 pans for bigger batches.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines all the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the simplicity of a sheet cake. Rich, moist, and filled with gooey cinnamon-sugar goodness, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re making it for brunch, dessert, or a holiday gathering, this cake will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your dessert lineup.

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