Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a rich, moist dessert that combines the beloved flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the ease of a poke cake. Infused with cinnamon-sugar swirls and topped with a luscious glaze, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Each bite delivers a soft, buttery texture with gooey cinnamon sweetness that will remind you of your favorite bakery treat.

ingredients

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

boxed white or yellow cake mixingredients needed for the cake mix (usually eggs, oil, water)brown sugarsugarground cinnamonunsalted buttervanilla extractsweetened condensed milkpowdered sugarmilkcream cheese (optional for a tangy glaze)

directions

Preheat your oven according to the cake mix package instructions and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box and pour it into the prepared baking dish.

Bake the cake according to the package directions, then remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.

Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the warm cake.

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Pour the cinnamon mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.

Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the cake to enhance the richness and gooey texture.

Let the cake cool completely.

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk (add softened cream cheese for a tangy glaze, if desired) until smooth.

Spread or drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12–15 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 25–30 minutesCooling and assembling time: 30–40 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping.

Use a spice cake mix for extra cinnamon flavor.

Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Swirl in a bit of maple syrup for added depth.

Add raisins for a classic cinnamon roll twist.

storage/reheating

Store Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.To reheat, microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds for a warm, gooey bite.You can also freeze the cake (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a baked cake that’s poked with holes and filled with flavorful liquids or mixtures to add moisture and flavor.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?

Yes, any basic white or yellow cake recipe will work well.

Is cream cheese glaze necessary?

No, you can make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk, but cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just add the glaze before serving.

Why use sweetened condensed milk?

It adds richness and a gooey texture that mimics the filling of a cinnamon roll.

How do I keep the cake from getting soggy?

Make sure not to over-pour the fillings; allow time for the cake to absorb them slowly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Is this too sweet?

It is rich and sweet, but you can adjust by using less glaze or skipping the condensed milk layer.

What type of cinnamon is best?

Ground Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon both work, though Cassia offers a stronger flavor.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, but the glaze enhances the cinnamon roll experience.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake brings together the comfort of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a one-pan cake. Perfectly sweet, gooey, and indulgent, it’s an ideal treat for gatherings, holidays, or when you’re simply craving something extra cozy. This dessert is sure to become a crowd favorite with its warm spices and creamy glaze.

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