CINNAMON ROLL POKE CAKE! Recipe

If you love the warm, comforting flavors of fresh-baked cinnamon rolls but want a quicker, mess-free version, you are going to fall head over heels for this CINNAMON ROLL POKE CAKE! Recipe. Combining the soft, moist texture of a classic white cake with a sinfully rich cinnamon-brown sugar filling soaked right into the cake and topped with dreamy cream cheese frosting, this cake captures all the best parts of a cinnamon roll in every bite. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or making any day feel special without complicated steps or hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role in bringing this cake to life. From the fluffy white cake base giving it lightness, to the buttery cinnamon filling that pools into every nook, and the luscious cream cheese frosting that finishes it off with irresistible richness—all straightforward but absolutely essential.

• White cake mix: Provides a tender, soft cake base that’s quick and easy to make from a box but tastes fantastic.
• Butter: Used both in the filling and frosting for richness, moisture, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Light brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and natural sweetness to the luscious filling.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the filling with warm, cozy flavor.
• Clear vanilla extract: Brightens the filling with a fragrant, sweet aroma without changing the cake’s color.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Thickens the filling while adding creamy sweetness that makes the cake irresistible.
• Cream cheese: Delivers tangy creaminess in the frosting that balances the sweet cinnamon filling perfectly.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a perfect spreadable consistency.
• Half and half: Lightens the frosting texture for smooth, velvety coverage.

How to Make CINNAMON ROLL POKE CAKE! Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Start by preparing your white cake mix exactly as the package instructions say—quick and fuss-free. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan, then bake until it’s golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Letting the cake cool fully is key here because the filling needs to seep into the holes without making the cake soggy.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cinnamon Filling

While the cake cools, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, clear vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Keep stirring until everything blends into a smooth, thick syrup bursting with warm, cinnamon goodness. This filling is what transforms your plain cake into that luscious cinnamon roll experience.

Step 3: Poke the Cake and Add the Filling

Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the cooled cake surface. This is the magic step that lets the cinnamon filling sink deep into the cake, infusing it with flavor and extra moisture. Pour the syrupy filling gently over the cake, allowing it to settle luxuriously into every crevice.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, clear vanilla flavoring, powdered sugar, and half and half until the frosting is silky smooth and spreadable. This frosting adds a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweet cinnamon filling that truly makes this cake sing.

Step 5: Frost and Chill

Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake once the filling has set in. Pop the whole thing in the refrigerator to chill, allowing the frosting to firm up and the flavors to marry perfectly before you slice and serve.

How to Serve CINNAMON ROLL POKE CAKE! Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to add a little decorative flair, sprinkle some extra cinnamon over the frosting or dust with a light coating of powdered sugar for a snowy effect. A few toasted chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch and nutty depth that complements the cake beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs brilliantly with a simple cup of coffee or a warm mug of spiced chai tea, making your breakfast or afternoon snack feel totally indulgent. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can turn it into a dreamy dessert too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun brunch centerpiece, serve individual slices topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also cut the cake into smaller squares for a party platter or even layer thin slices with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced apples for a cinnamon roll poke cake trifle twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover CINNAMON ROLL POKE CAKE! Recipe will keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making the next slice even better.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, wrap the uncut cake tightly with plastic wrap then with foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm, reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until just warmed through, being careful not to melt the frosting completely—though some softening is delicious!

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using cake mix?

Absolutely! A homemade white cake recipe works wonderfully here. Just keep it simple so the flavors of the cinnamon filling and frosting remain the stars.

Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, and use a nondairy milk option if needed. The texture might vary slightly but the flavors will still shine bright.

Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of clear vanilla?

Yes, you can use regular vanilla extract. Just keep in mind it may add a slight tint to your filling and frosting, but it won’t affect the deliciousness.

How long should I poke holes in the cake?

Poking holes about every inch apart across the entire cake surface works best to let the filling soak evenly. Be gentle so you don’t break the cake apart.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! Just use two 9×13 pans or a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly, checking doneness as you go.

Final Thoughts

This CINNAMON ROLL POKE CAKE! Recipe is a total game-changer if you adore cinnamon rolls but crave something easier and shareable. The combination of soft cake soaked with sweet cinnamon filling and creamy frosting creates a dessert that everyone will be talking about long after the last crumb is gone. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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