Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Indulge in the delightful fusion of a classic cinnamon roll and a moist, tender cake with this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. This dessert combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.​Princess Pinky Girl+2CincyShopper+2Persnickety Plates+2

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ease of Preparation: Utilizing a boxed cake mix simplifies the baking process, allowing you to focus on creating the delectable cinnamon filling and creamy frosting.​Princess Pinky Girl+1The Country Cook+1
• Decadent Flavor: Each bite offers the warm, comforting taste of cinnamon rolls in cake form, complete with a gooey filling and smooth cream cheese topping.​
• Versatility: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the Cake:
  • Vanilla or white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)​Princess Pinky Girl+3Log in or sign up to view+3The Country Cook+3
• For the Filling:
  • Unsalted butter​Reddit
  • Light brown sugar​Persnickety Plates+2Princess Pinky Girl+2CincyShopper+2
  • Ground cinnamon​Persnickety Plates+3CincyShopper+3Princess Pinky Girl+3
  • Sweetened condensed milk​Princess Pinky Girl+2The Country Cook+2tasty.co+2
  • Vanilla extract​
• For the Frosting:
  • Cream cheese, softened​The Country Cook
  • Unsalted butter, softened​Persnickety Plates+1Princess Pinky Girl+1
  • Powdered sugar​
  • Vanilla extract​
  • Milk or heavy cream​The Country Cook

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.​
   • Prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions and pour it into the prepared baking dish.​The Country Cook+1tasty.co+1
   • Bake as directed, typically for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.​
2. Poke Holes:
   • Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes approximately 1 inch apart across the entire surface of the cake.​CincyShopper+4The Country Cook+4Princess Pinky Girl+4
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.​tasty.co+5CincyShopper+5The Country Cook+5
   • Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.​
4. Add the Filling:
   • Evenly pour the warm cinnamon mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if necessary.​Persnickety Plates
5. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.​The Country Cook
   • Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or heavy cream, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.​The Country Cook
6. Frost the Cake:
   • Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.​
7. Serve:
   • Slice and serve the cake at room temperature or chilled, according to your preference.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12-15 slices​
• Prep Time: 15 minutes​Log in or sign up to view+1Delish+1
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes​
• Cooling Time: 20-30 minutes​
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes​

Variations

• Cake Mix Options: Substitute the vanilla cake mix with a spice cake mix for an added depth of flavor.​Log in or sign up to view+1Sue Recipe+1
• Nut Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting for a delightful crunch.​Sue Recipe
• Glaze Alternative: Instead of cream cheese frosting, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cake for a lighter topping.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.​
• Reheating: While the cake tastes delicious cold, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy a fresh-from-the-oven experience.​Sue Recipe

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?

Yes, you can substitute the boxed cake mix with your favorite homemade vanilla or white cake recipe. Ensure it yields enough batter for a 9×13-inch pan.​

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

Using the handle of a wooden spoon creates appropriately sized holes for the filling to seep into, ensuring even distribution throughout the cake.​I Heart Eating+1Sue Recipe+1

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, allowing the cake to sit overnight enhances the flavors as the filling further permeates the cake.​

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake?

Yes, due to the cream cheese frosting, it’s advisable to refrigerate the cake to maintain freshness and safety.​

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.​

How can I prevent the filling from making the cake too soggy?

Ensure the cake is slightly warm (not hot) when adding the filling, and pour the filling slowly, allowing it to seep into the holes without pooling excessively on top.​Cake Babe

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?

Yes, a store-bought cream cheese frosting can be used as a time-saving alternative.​

What can I use if I don’t have sweetened condensed

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