Decadent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Easy, Irresistible & Crowd-Pleasing
Indulge in the best of both worlds with our incredible Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake recipe. This dessert masterfully combines the comforting, spiced sweetness of your favorite cinnamon rolls with the delightful ease and moist texture of a classic poke cake. Each bite offers a symphony of warm cinnamon, rich brown sugar, and a dreamy, tangy cream cheese frosting that will transport you straight to breakfast heaven, any time of day! If you’re searching for a truly decadent yet surprisingly simple treat, look no further. This recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a festive potluck. Get ready to impress everyone with this dessert that tastes just like a coffee cake infused with all the beloved flavors of Cinnamon Rolls. And while you’re satisfying your cinnamon cravings, be sure to explore our extensive collection of Cinnamon Dessert Recipes for even more spiced delights.
Why wait to experience this heavenly creation? You absolutely need to whip up this cinnamon roll poke cake! It delivers all the rich, comforting flavors you adore in a cinnamon roll, perfectly baked into a tender, moist cake. The convenience of using a cake mix, combined with simple, flavorful fillings, makes this recipe an ideal choice for busy bakers who don’t want to compromise on taste. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises delicious results with minimal fuss. Prepare to fall in love with its irresistible aroma and incredible taste. It’s truly a must-try dessert that will quickly become a household favorite.
Table of contents
- What is a Poke Cake?
- Ingredients for Your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
- For the Cake Base
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
- More Easy Poke Cake Recipes to Try
What is a Poke Cake? The Secret to Ultimate Moisture and Flavor
A poke cake is a delightfully simple yet ingenious type of cake recipe that guarantees an incredibly moist and flavorful dessert every time. The magic happens after the cake is baked and still warm. You literally “poke” holes all over the surface of the cake using a wooden spoon handle, a fork, or even a skewer. These holes then become little wells for a luscious liquid mixture to seep into. This “filling,” which can range from pudding and fruit purees to sweetened condensed milk, or in our case, a rich cinnamon-brown sugar blend, infuses every inch of the cake with moisture and intense flavor. The result is a cake that is exceptionally tender, juicy, and packed with taste, far beyond what a regular cake could offer.
The beauty of poke cakes lies in their versatility and ease. They are fantastic for adding an extra layer of flavor and moisture without requiring complex baking techniques. This method ensures that even a basic cake mix can be transformed into an extraordinary dessert. Poke cakes are also a fantastic option for making ahead of time, as the flavors continue to meld and deepen as the cake chills. Our Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake takes this concept to new heights by using a warm, buttery cinnamon-brown sugar mixture that truly mimics the gooey center of a classic cinnamon roll. It’s a very easy recipe and consistently ranks among the Best Poke Cake Recipes for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort for maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients for Your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Crafting this sensational Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake requires a few simple ingredients, easily found at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe is how these humble components come together to create something truly spectacular. We’ll divide the ingredients into two main sections: those for the cake base and those for the luscious cream cheese frosting.
For the Cake Base and Cinnamon Filling
- White Cake Mix: This is your easy starting point for a light and fluffy cake. You will also need the additional ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water) and prepare it according to the package directions. A white cake mix provides a neutral base that truly allows the rich cinnamon flavors to shine. You could also use a yellow or vanilla cake mix for a slightly richer vanilla note, or even a spice cake mix if you want to double down on the warming spices.
- Brown Sugar: Essential for that deep, caramelized sweetness that defines cinnamon rolls. Make sure to pack it firmly when measuring for accuracy. If you run out, don’t worry, there are some great Brown Sugar Substitutes you can use in a pinch.
- Butter (melted): This forms the base of our incredible cinnamon roll filling, adding richness and helping the brown sugar and cinnamon seep into the cake.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The key to the poke cake’s signature moisture and additional sweetness. It creates a creamy, dreamy texture within the cake.
- Ground Cinnamon: The star spice! Use a good quality ground cinnamon for the best aromatic and flavor impact. This is what truly gives the cake its “cinnamon roll” essence.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese: Softened at room temperature is crucial for a smooth, lump-free frosting. The cream cheese adds a delightful tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake and filling.
- Butter (softened): Works with the cream cheese to create a rich, spreadable frosting. Again, room temperature is key for easy blending.
- Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this provides the sweetness and smooth texture for the frosting. You may need to sift the powdered sugar if it appears lumpy, ensuring a silky-smooth finish.
- Milk: Used to adjust the consistency of the frosting, allowing you to achieve your desired spreadability. Start with a smaller amount and add more gradually.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors in the frosting, adding a classic warmth.
You can find the complete ingredient list with precise measurements and the full, detailed recipe instructions at the bottom of this post in the convenient recipe card. This makes it easy to print or save for later!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delicious Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Follow these easy steps to bring this dessert masterpiece to life:
- Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, generously grease and flour or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Step 2: Bake the Cake Base. Follow the instructions on your chosen white cake mix package. Typically, this involves combining the mix with water, oil, and eggs. Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into your greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake the cake as directed on the package, usually for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Do not overbake, as this can lead to a dry cake.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Topping. While your cake is baking and still warm, begin preparing the decadent cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, packed brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and ground cinnamon until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant. Set this aside, ready to be poured over the warm cake.
Step 4: Poke Holes in the Warm Cake. Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, carefully poke holes all over its top surface. The handle of a wooden spoon is perfect for creating nice, wide holes that will allow the cinnamon mixture to deeply penetrate the cake. Aim for holes that go almost to the bottom of the cake, but not all the way through, and space them about 1 inch apart for even distribution of flavor and moisture. You can also use a fork, a skewer, or a chopstick for smaller holes, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Pour Cinnamon Mixture over Cake. Carefully pour the prepared cinnamon-brown sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface of the warm, poked cake. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread it, ensuring that the delicious mixture flows into every single hole. The warmth of the cake will help it absorb the liquid beautifully, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout. You’ll instantly smell the incredible aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen!
Step 6: Allow the Cake to Cool. Once the cinnamon mixture is poured, allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature. This is a crucial step before frosting, as it prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting into the warm cake. Depending on your kitchen’s temperature, this might take 1-2 hours.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting. While the cake cools, it’s time to prepare the luscious cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer (or stand mixer), beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter until they are light, fluffy, and completely combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese for the smoothest frosting.
Step 8: Achieve Desired Frosting Consistency. Gradually add the powdered sugar (sifted, if lumpy) and 1 tablespoon of milk and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase to medium-high and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreadable consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add a little more powdered sugar.
Step 9: Frost the Cooled Cake. Once the cake has completely cooled to room temperature, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the homemade cream cheese frosting evenly over the entire top surface of the cake. Take your time to create a smooth and inviting layer.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy! Your spectacular Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is now ready to be enjoyed! For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little more ground cinnamon on top of the frosting. Slice into generous portions and savor the incredible combination of flavors and textures. This cake is delightful served immediately at room temperature or chilled. It’s truly a treat that will disappear quickly!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
This cake is incredibly versatile and makes the perfect dessert for almost any occasion, whether you’re hosting guests, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy family night in. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser due to its comforting flavors and easy preparation. You can serve the cake slightly warm for a truly comforting experience, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top, or garnished with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. For a unique twist, it’s also absolutely delicious served chilled, allowing the flavors to fully meld. I personally love enjoying a slice in the morning with my coffee or hot tea, making it a delightful breakfast or brunch treat as well!
Absolutely not! While a white cake mix provides a clean canvas for the cinnamon and cream cheese flavors, you have plenty of flexibility. Vanilla or yellow cake mix would both be amazing cake mix options, offering a slightly richer flavor profile that complements the cinnamon beautifully. For an even deeper, spicier note, you could even try a spice cake mix. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could also bake your favorite homemade vanilla or yellow cake from scratch and then use it as the base for this poke cake. The key is to have a sturdy yet tender cake that can absorb the delicious cinnamon filling.
To maintain its freshness and deliciousness, it’s essential to properly store your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. Because of the cream cheese frosting, this cake should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. You can use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or place it inside an airtight container. Stored this way, the cake will remain fresh and delightful for up to 3 days. Allowing it to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving can enhance its texture and flavor, but always return leftovers to the fridge.
The goal is to create channels for your delicious filling, so several tools work well! We used the round handle of a wooden spoon for this recipe, which is perfect because it creates holes of an ideal size, allowing the gooey cinnamon mixture to generously seep into the cake, creating those pockets of intense flavor. However, don’t feel limited! You can easily use a fork for smaller, more delicate holes, a skewer, or even a chopstick. Experiment to see what you have on hand and what creates the desired effect for your perfect poke cake. Just ensure the holes are deep enough to reach near the bottom of the cake without piercing through.
Yes, once assembled, poke cakes, especially those with dairy-based fillings and frostings like our cream cheese frosting and sweetened condensed milk, absolutely need to be refrigerated. Allow the cake to cool on the counter for a few minutes after pouring the cinnamon mixture, then transfer it to the fridge to fully cool and allow the filling to set up. Refrigeration ensures food safety and helps the cake maintain its structure and moistness. This is a very simple cake recipe and so easy to make with just a few ingredients, making proper storage a breeze.
Yes, absolutely! This is one of the many reasons why we adore Poke Cake Recipes. They are the perfect dessert to make ahead of time, which makes them ideal for entertaining or when you simply want to prepare a delicious treat in advance. In fact, we actually think they taste even better if they are prepared 1-2 days ahead of time. This allows all the wonderful cinnamon and cream cheese flavors to thoroughly meld and deepen, resulting in an even more flavorful and moist cake. Just remember to store it properly in the refrigerator.
While homemade cream cheese frosting truly elevates this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake to another level, you can certainly use a good quality store-bought cream cheese frosting if you’re short on time. To enhance its flavor and make it taste more homemade, you can beat the store-bought frosting with a splash of milk and a teaspoon of vanilla extract before spreading it on the cake. This will lighten its texture and boost its flavor profile, bringing it closer to the homemade experience.
To ensure your cake is as moist as possible, there are a few key tips. First, avoid overbaking the cake in the initial step; bake it just until a toothpick comes out clean. Second, make sure to poke plenty of holes and ensure the cinnamon-condensed milk mixture is generously poured and spread, allowing it to thoroughly saturate the cake. The warmer the cake is when you pour the filling, the better it will absorb. Finally, proper storage in an airtight container in the refrigerator will help lock in the moisture and prevent the cake from drying out.
More Easy Poke Cake Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, you’ll be thrilled to discover the world of other easy poke cake recipes! These cakes are perfect for any occasion and always deliver on flavor and moisture. Here are some of our top recommendations for you to try next:
- Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe: A southern classic transformed into a delightful poke cake, bursting with banana and vanilla wafer flavors.
- Lemon Poke Cake Recipe: Bright, zesty, and incredibly refreshing, this cake is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
- Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe: A vibrant and fruity dessert, loaded with fresh strawberry flavor and a delightful creamy filling.
- Boston Cream Poke Cake Recipe: All the rich, creamy goodness of a Boston cream pie in an easy-to-make cake form.
- Butterfinger Cake: For chocolate and peanut butter candy lovers, this indulgent cake is a dream come true.
We genuinely hope you try this amazing Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake recipe! Your feedback means the world to us. Please come back and leave a comment below after you’ve made it. We love hearing from you and seeing your delicious creations!
Pin
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Ingredients
- CAKE:
- 15.25 oz white cake mix prepared according to package
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- FROSTING:
- 8 ounce package cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the cake mix according to package directions, then pour into the prepared dish and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
-
While the cake is baking, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
-
Once the cake is out of the oven, use the handle of a wooden spoon (or a fork/skewer) to carefully poke holes evenly over the entire warm cake surface.
-
Pour the prepared cinnamon filling mixture over the warm, hole-poked cake, gently spreading it as necessary to ensure it seeps into all the holes.
-
Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before proceeding with the frosting. This is important to prevent the frosting from melting.
-
To make the cream cheese frosting, in a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter with an electric mixer until they are light, fluffy, and thoroughly combined.
-
Gradually add the powdered sugar (sifted if needed), 1 tablespoon of milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until well-combined and smooth.
-
If the frosting is too thick, mix in additional milk one teaspoon at a time until you achieve your desired creamy, spreadable consistency.
-
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the prepared cream cheese frosting evenly over the top surface of the cake.
-
Serve the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture, or chill it and enjoy it cold.
-
Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
Pin This Now to Remember It Later
Pin Recipe