A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and cake, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a match made in dessert heaven. Imagine the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls paired with the fluffy texture of a vanilla cake, topped with rich cream cheese frosting. This recipe is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a casual treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and utterly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the best of both worlds: the nostalgic flavor of cinnamon rolls and the simplicity of a boxed cake mix. It’s:

Easy to make: Using a cake mix saves time and guarantees consistent results.
Crowd-pleaser: The creamy filling and frosting make it a hit at any gathering.
Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or even a drizzle of caramel to make it your own.
Perfect for beginners: With simple steps and minimal kitchen tools required, anyone can master this dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

1 box vanilla (white) cake mix (prepared as directed on the box)

For the Filling:

5 tablespoons butter
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2½ teaspoons clear vanilla extract
14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk

For the Frosting:

8 tablespoons butter, softened (½ cup)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract (regular vanilla extract can be substituted)
2 teaspoons half and half
2½ cups powdered sugar

Kitchen Equipment Needed

9 x 13 baking dish
Mixing bowls (various sizes)
Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
Microwave-safe bowl
Stand mixer or handheld mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9 x 13 baking dish with baking spray. Prepare the vanilla cake mix as directed on the box. Depending on the recipe, you can use whole eggs or just egg whites—it’s your choice! Bake the cake, keeping a close eye as it may finish a few minutes earlier than the box suggests. Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly until it’s warm to the touch.

2. Create the Poke Cake

Using the handle of a silicone or wooden spoon, poke holes into the cake, spacing them about ½ inch apart. These holes will allow the filling to seep through, creating a moist and flavorful cake.

3. Prepare the Filling

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until smooth, then microwave for 1 minute. Stir, microwave for another minute, and repeat in 30-second increments until all lumps are dissolved. Carefully ladle this warm mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes evenly.

4. Make the Frosting

Using a stand or handheld mixer, cream together the butter and cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth. Scrape down the bowl, then reduce the speed to low and add the vanilla extract, half and half, and powdered sugar (in ½ cup increments). Once incorporated, return to medium speed and mix until the frosting is creamy and smooth.

5. Frost the Cake

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a silicone spatula. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Recipe Variations

Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a crunchy texture.
Raisins: Fold a handful of raisins into the filling for a more traditional cinnamon roll flavor.
Caramel drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting for extra indulgence.
Spices: Enhance the filling with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warm, spicy twist.

Food Pairings

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or a warm chai tea latte. For a festive touch, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! A butter pecan or yellow cake mix would complement the cinnamon filling beautifully.

Do I have to use clear vanilla extract?

Not at all! Regular vanilla extract works just as well, though it may slightly tint the frosting.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator and frost it before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat this cake?

To enjoy it warm, microwave individual slices for about 15 seconds.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its moist cake, gooey filling, and creamy frosting, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for any occasion or just a casual treat, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and baking tips. Let us know how your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake turned out in the comments below—we can’t wait to hear from you!

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