There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of cinnamon swirling through your kitchen. It’s warm, cozy, and instantly makes you feel at home. Now, imagine combining that comforting scent with the soft, moist texture of a cake that’s been infused with rich cinnamon-sugar goodness. That’s exactly what you get with this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake!
This cake is the ultimate dessert for cinnamon roll lovers who don’t want to deal with all the kneading and waiting that comes with traditional rolls. It’s easy, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Trust me, you’re going to love every bite of this sweet, spiced masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Whether you serve it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a decadent dessert, this cake fits any occasion. It pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this cake delivers bakery-quality taste without the hefty price tag.
Quick and Easy: No need to roll out dough or wait for anything to rise! This poke cake comes together in no time, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
Customizable: Love extra icing? Want to add nuts? Prefer a little more spice? You can tweak this recipe to your liking and make it truly your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Cake Base
A soft, moist cake that acts as the perfect canvas for all that cinnamon-sugar goodness.
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
A blend of cinnamon, sugar, and butter that infuses the cake with that signature swirl of flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Poured into the poke holes to make the cake extra moist and rich.
Cream Cheese Frosting
A luscious, tangy-sweet topping that ties everything together beautifully.
Instructions
Bake the Cake
Prepare and bake your cake according to package instructions (or your favorite homemade recipe). The goal is a fluffy, golden cake that’s ready to soak up all the cinnamon goodness.
Poke the Holes
Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface. This step is key to making sure every bite is packed with cinnamon-sugar flavor.
Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. This is what gives the cake its ultra-moist texture and irresistible richness.
Add the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
Melt butter and mix it with cinnamon and sugar, then drizzle it over the cake, letting it sink into the holes for that classic cinnamon roll taste.
Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Smooth it out evenly so every slice gets a perfect balance of cake and frosting.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice, serve, and watch as everyone swoons over this cinnamon-infused delight. Enjoy it warm or chilled it’s delicious either way!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 300-350 kcal (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- With a Hot Beverage: Serve with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.
- Topped with Extras: Add chopped pecans, caramel drizzle, or an extra dusting of cinnamon for an extra special touch.
- Chilled or Warm: Enjoy it straight from the fridge for a firmer texture, or warm it up slightly for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Additional Tips
- Let the cake cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and becoming too runny.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest frosting.
- Make it ahead of time! This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Store leftovers in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake instead of a cake mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite vanilla or yellow cake recipe, feel free to use it.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Sure! While cream cheese frosting is classic, a simple vanilla or buttercream frosting would work just as well.
What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
You can substitute with a mixture of heavy cream and sugar for a similar effect.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a lovely crunch.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep it covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar in the cinnamon mixture?
Yes! Brown sugar will add a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Can I make this in a different pan size?
Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is the perfect blend of a classic cinnamon roll and a moist, rich cake. It’s simple to make, packed with warm, spiced flavors, and guaranteed to be a hit at any table. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get baking this one’s a game-changer!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the moistness of a cake! Swirled with cinnamon and topped with a sweet glaze, this cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion. Easy to make and delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients to make the cake)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) can cinnamon roll frosting (or homemade glaze)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package directions and bake in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and cinnamon. Pour the mixture over the top of the cake, filling the holes.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Spread the cinnamon roll frosting on top of the cake while it is still warm.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top of the frosting before serving.
- This cake is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature.
- You can use store-bought cinnamon rolls for the frosting or make your own glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg