If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the cozy, comforting flavors of fresh cinnamon rolls but with a twist of ease and fun, then you’re going to adore this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe. It brings together a tender white cake infused with a luscious cinnamon-brown sugar glaze that seeps into every nook and cranny, topped off by a creamy cinnamon-spiked cream cheese frosting. Every bite offers that warm, sweet, melt-in-your-mouth experience you crave, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together in this recipe to create layers of flavor and texture that feel indulgent but are surprisingly easy to assemble. Each ingredient plays a key role—whether it’s the fluffy cake base, the rich sticky glaze, or the smooth and tangy frosting that crowns the whole creation.
- 1 15.25 ounce white cake mix: The humble foundation that bakes up light and tender, soaking up the glaze beautifully.
- 5 tablespoons butter: Adds luscious richness to the glaze, balancing the sweetness.
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed): Infuses the glaze with deep caramel notes and moist texture.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice of the dish, delivering fragrant warmth.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and ties all the flavors together.
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk: Creates a super creamy, sticky glaze that melts into the cake.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Provides tangy smoothness to the frosting.
- ½ cup butter (softened): Gives the frosting a silky texture and rich flavor.
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
- 2 teaspoons half & half: Lightens the frosting slightly for a dreamy consistency.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F, preparing to bake the cake to a perfect golden-brown. Having an evenly heated oven ensures the cake cooks just right, setting the stage for all those delicious flavors to shine.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Mix and prepare the white cake batter following the package instructions. Pour it into your pan and bake until golden and springy to the touch. Once out of the oven, let the cake cool just until it’s warm enough to work with—this warmth helps the glaze soak in deeply for that signature poke cake texture.
Step 3: Poke Those Holes
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or spatula, poke holes evenly across the cake about half an inch apart. This step might seem simple, but it’s what allows the luscious glaze to seep all the way through, infusing every bite with cinnamon and sweetness.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Glaze
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, 5 tablespoons butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Heat it on high for one minute and stir well, then microwave for another minute and stir again until the glaze is silky smooth and the brown sugar fully dissolves. This warm, gooey glaze is the heart of that cinnamon roll flavor.
Step 5: Pour the Glaze Over the Cake
Drizzle the hot glaze evenly across the warm cake surface, making sure it fills every little hole you poked earlier. This step ensures the cake is incredibly moist and draped in that cinnamon-infused sweetness.
Step 6: Whip the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. This rich base makes for a decadent frosting that balances the sweetness with a touch of tang.
Step 7: Add Vanilla, Half & Half, and Powdered Sugar
Blend in vanilla extract and half & half, then gradually add powdered sugar in increments, mixing on low speed to avoid a powdered puff cloud! Continue until the frosting is luscious, smooth, and easily spreadable—the ideal consistency to top your masterpiece.
Step 8: Frost and Finish
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the glazed cake. For an extra cozy touch, sprinkle a little more ground cinnamon on top. Then slice your cake into generous squares, grab a fork, and prepare to be delighted.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a fun way to personalize your cake. Consider a light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to add a bit of crunch and visual appeal. Fresh whipped cream or even a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the indulgence even more.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a fluffy cup of coffee or a warm mug of spiced chai, balancing sweetness with a comforting beverage. For a brunch gathering, serve alongside fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping dessert table, try serving the poke cake in individual glass cups to showcase the beautiful glaze and frosting layers. Alternatively, layer the cake squares with whipped cream and cinnamon-dusted apple slices for an elegant twist that’ll wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen over a day or two, making the cake even more delightful. Refrigerate for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and refresh with a light dusting of cinnamon.
Reheating
Since this is a moist poke cake, it’s best served chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. The glaze will soften, making it feel freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While the white cake mix keeps the flavors light and leaves room for the cinnamon glaze to shine, you can experiment with yellow or even spice cake mixes for a flavor twist.
Is it necessary to poke holes using a wooden spoon handle?
Not at all. Any utensil with a fairly narrow handle will work well to create the holes that allow the glaze to absorb fully into the cake. Just aim for evenly spaced holes about half an inch apart.
Can I make the frosting dairy-free or vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives, such as vegan cream cheese and margarine, and swap half & half for coconut milk or almond milk. Just keep in mind texture and flavor might vary slightly.
How long does this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe take to make?
The prep is quick—about 10 minutes—and baking takes around 25 minutes. Cooling and frosting will require a bit more time, but overall, it’s a fast dessert to whip up that feels so much more special than the effort it demands.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake?
Definitely! For extra texture and flavor, fold chopped nuts or raisins into the cake batter before baking. It adds a delightful surprise inside every bite, complementing the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is truly one of those kitchen gems that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable experience. It’s easy to make, downright addictive, and perfect for any celebration or cozy night in. So go ahead, give it a try—you’ll soon realize why it’s such a cherished dessert to share with friends and family.
