If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine moist vanilla cake infused with a luscious cinnamon-butter glaze soaked deep into each pore, topped with creamy cinnamon frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to finish. This cake takes the beloved flavors of a cinnamon roll and transforms them into a simple, crowd-pleasing poke cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that effortlessly come together to create a dessert bursting with flavor. Each element plays an essential role — from the vanilla cake mix that forms a soft and tender base to the sweetened condensed milk that adds rich moisture, and the cinnamon and brown sugar that bring that classic cinnamon roll warmth.
- Vanilla cake mix: A quick and easy base that ensures moistness and a light crumb.
- Box ingredients: Usually eggs, oil, and water — follow the package for perfectly baked cake every time.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds decadent sweetness and helps soak the cake with a creamy, sticky texture.
- Melted salted butter: Imparts richness and balances the sweetness with a touch of saltiness.
- Brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes that complement the cinnamon beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives this poke cake its signature warmth and flavor.
- Cream cheese: Softened for smooth, tangy frosting that cuts through the richness.
- Butter (softened): Creates a fluffy frosting texture that’s luscious and spreadable.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor by adding subtle aromatic depth.
- Heavy cream or milk: Lightens the frosting for easy spreading without losing creaminess.
- Cinnamon sugar: Optional but highly recommended for garnish—it adds delightful crunch and extra cinnamon punch.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Vanilla Cake
Start by preheating your oven and following the package instructions to prepare the vanilla cake mix. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This simple vanilla base is the perfect canvas to soak up all the cinnamon goodness coming your way.
Step 2: Poke Your Cake
Right after your cake comes out of the oven and is still warm, gently use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the top. This step is vital because it creates little tunnels for the cinnamon mixture to seep deep into the cake, infusing each bite with incredible flavor and moisture.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, melted salted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth and fully combined. This luscious, cinnamon-kissed syrup will create that famous cinnamon roll gooeyness throughout the cake.
Step 4: Pour and Soak
Slowly drizzle the cinnamon mixture over the warm cake, allowing it to seep down into every hole you’ve poked. Don’t rush this part—letting the mixture fully saturate the cake takes patience but makes all the difference in flavor and texture. After pouring, let the cake cool completely at room temperature.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then blend in vanilla extract and heavy cream (or milk) until smooth and spreadable. This frosting is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, complementing the rich cinnamon-soaked cake underneath beautifully.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is fully cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. This luscious layer adds a luscious finishing touch that brings the whole cinnamon roll vibe together deliciously.
Step 7: Add the Final Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle
For a little extra flair, sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the frosted cake. It creates a lovely visual contrast and a delicate crunch with every bite.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the frosting to set, giving you the best texture and making each slice clean and perfect.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic cinnamon sugar sprinkle, you can top your poke cake with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch that complements the softness. A drizzle of caramel or cream cheese glaze also elevates the presentation and adds extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want to keep it more cozy, a nice hot cup of coffee or chai tea alongside helps balance out the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this cake in individual glass jars or cups layered with extra filling and frosting for a charming single-serve treat at parties. You could also cut it into smaller squares and arrange on a pretty platter sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and garnished fresh mint leaves for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps beautifully when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying as delicious leftovers.
Freezing
You can freeze the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil to protect against freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
If you want to warm a slice, briefly microwave it for about 15 to 20 seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-oven softness without melting the frosting completely. Enjoy it slightly warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade vanilla cake instead of box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade vanilla cake will work wonderfully if you prefer from-scratch baking. Just be sure it’s firm enough to hold the syrup without becoming too soggy.
What type of cinnamon works best for this recipe?
Ground cinnamon is ideal here. You can use regular Cassia cinnamon or opt for Ceylon cinnamon for a milder, sweeter note—both add that distinctive warmth essential to this poke cake.
Is it necessary to chill the cake before frosting?
Chilling is strongly recommended because it helps the cake set and cool completely, preventing the frosting from melting and sliding off. It also improves the overall texture and flavor melding.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
With a few substitutions, yes! Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, and replace heavy cream with a plant-based milk. This way you can still enjoy the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe without dairy.
How long does this cake last at room temperature?
Since it contains cream cheese frosting, it’s best kept refrigerated. At room temperature, it should not be left out more than two hours to keep it fresh and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that feels like a cozy celebration in every forkful, the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy to make, irresistibly moist, and packed with classic cinnamon roll flavors that everyone will adore. Trust me, once you bring this cake to the table, it will disappear faster than you can say cinnamon sugar. So go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a beloved recipe in your home!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake that captures the essence of classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make layered cake with a creamy cinnamon-infused filling and luscious cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- Ingredients called for on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons melted salted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Frosting
- 1/2 block (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
Topping
- Cinnamon sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix package instructions. Prepare the vanilla cake batter by following the directions on the box, then pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke Holes: While the cake is still warm, gently use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake, allowing the filling to seep deep into the cake.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, melted salted butter, packed brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.
- Pour Filling: Slowly pour the cinnamon mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely to let the flavors meld and the filling set.
- Make Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream or milk until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Cake: Evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake, covering the top completely.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the frosting for an extra burst of cinnamon flavor and a touch of sparkle.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to achieve the best texture and allow the frosting to set.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for smoother frosting.
- For a richer taste, substitute salted butter with unsalted butter and adjust salt accordingly.
- Ensure the cake is warm when poking holes for optimal absorption of the filling.
- Chilling the cake enhances the flavor melding and frosting texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
