You know how certain recipes have the power to transport you back to a specific moment in time? That’s exactly how I feel about my Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. Every time I bake it, I’m reminded of cozy Sunday mornings spent with my family, the scent of cinnamon swirling through the air, and the laughter echoing around the kitchen. It’s like a warm hug in dessert form, and trust me, it’s hard to resist sneaking a spoonful before it even makes it to the table!

This delightful cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just treating yourself on a rainy afternoon. It combines the best of both worlds: the fluffy goodness of vanilla cake and the irresistible flavors of a cinnamon roll. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you'll find yourself making it again and again. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously sweet adventure together!

Why You’ll Love "Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake"

Quick and easy prep: Whip it up in just 20 minutes!
Minimal ingredients: Most items are pantry staples, making it budget-friendly.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet cinnamon flavor; it’s a guaranteed hit!
Freezer-friendly: You can freeze leftovers for a sweet treat later.
Perfect for any occasion: Birthdays, brunches, or just because — it fits every moment.
Irresistibly moist: The sweetened condensed milk ensures each bite is rich and creamy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Required Ingredients

1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, water, and oil)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ cup melted unsalted butter
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk (for thinning the frosting, use whole or 2% for best results)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Usually, it's around 350°F (175°C), but double-check just to be sure!

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, prepare the vanilla cake mix as instructed on the box. This typically involves mixing the cake mix with eggs, water, and oil until smooth and combined.

Pour and Mix

Once your batter is ready, pour it into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
In a separate bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This will create that delightful cinnamon swirl!

Bake the Cake

Now, drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the cake batter evenly. Don't be shy; let it soak in!
Next, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture generously over the top of the cake batter.
Bake the cake in the preheated oven according to the package instructions, usually about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, take a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the cake. This is where all that moist goodness will seep in!

Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the warm cake, filling all those lovely holes you just made. Trust me, this is where the magic happens!

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and the remaining unsalted butter. Beat together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until everything is well combined and you have a delightful frosting that’s perfect for spreading!

Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the top of the cake. Make sure to cover it all, and don’t forget to lick the spatula — it's delicious!

Variations

For a pumpkin twist, substitute ½ cup of the cake mix with canned pumpkin puree and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice.
Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free vanilla cake mix.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting.
Try a chocolate version with chocolate cake mix and chocolate frosting!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

For the best flavor, serve your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake chilled. A warm slice is delightful, but the flavors truly shine when it's cold. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra touch of sweetness!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying!

Helpful Notes

If you don’t have cream cheese, Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute for frosting.
Feel free to use light brown sugar for a milder flavor or dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses taste.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon mix for an extra layer of warmth.
For a nut-free version, ensure your cake mix and toppings are all labeled nut-free.
Consider using dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a dairy-free option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

How can I substitute ingredients?

You can substitute the vanilla cake mix with a gluten-free mix if needed. For the cream cheese, Greek yogurt works well as a lighter option. Use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar for a milder taste, and you can swap the unsalted butter for coconut oil if you prefer a dairy-free version.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Serving your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake chilled brings out the best flavors! Feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for an extra touch. It’s equally delicious warm, but the chilled version is just divine!

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my dear friend! This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a memory waiting to happen. I hope you feel inspired to whip it up and share it with your loved ones. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday, this cake is sure to bring smiles and sweet moments to your table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the messiness of it all, and enjoy every delicious bite. I can't wait to hear how it turns out for you — happy baking!

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful cinnamon roll poke cake that combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls with a moist cake.

Instructions

Preheat oven according to cake mix instructions.
Prepare the vanilla cake mix as instructed on the box.
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
Drizzle melted butter over the cake batter.
Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the top.
Bake according to package instructions.
Once baked, remove from oven and poke holes all over the cake.
Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, filling the holes.
Let the cake cool completely.
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled cake.

Notes

Serve chilled for best flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Can be topped with whipped cream if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake