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
Scale
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.
