Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a rich, moist cake infused with swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. This easy-to-make dessert captures the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in a soft, delicious cake—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Uses a cake mix for a quick and simple base.
• Rich & Moist – The poke technique allows the cinnamon filling to soak into every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, potlucks, or weekend treats.
• Cream Cheese Glaze – A delicious, tangy-sweet topping completes the cake.
• Tastes Like a Cinnamon Roll – All the flavor with less effort!

Ingredients

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

For the Cake:

• 1 box vanilla or white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for extra spice, optional)

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Cake Mix – Mix cake batter according to box instructions, adding 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. Bake – Pour batter into the baking dish and bake according to package instructions (usually 25-30 minutes).

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

1. Mix Ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
2. Poke Holes in the Cake – Once baked, use the back of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes evenly across the cake.
3. Pour Filling Over Cake – Slowly pour the cinnamon mixture over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

1. Whip Ingredients – Beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle Over Cake – Pour or drizzle the glaze evenly over the cake.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

• Let the cake cool for a few minutes, then slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-15 slices
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake for extra richness.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
• Pumpkin Spice Version: Add ½ teaspoon nutmeg and ¼ teaspoon cloves to the batter.
• Extra Gooey: Pour an additional layer of sweetened condensed milk over the cake before adding the cinnamon filling.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of a cake mix?

Yes! Use your favorite vanilla or white cake recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

Use the handle of a wooden spoon for larger holes, or a skewer for smaller holes.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Try a classic vanilla glaze or a whipped cream topping.

How do I make this cake extra moist?

Let the cinnamon filling soak in for at least 10 minutes before adding the glaze.

Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?

Yes! Microwave it for a few seconds to make it pourable.

What can I serve with this cake?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee pairs perfectly.

Can I make this cake in cupcake form?

Yes! Bake cupcakes, poke holes, and fill with cinnamon mixture before glazing.

How do I prevent my glaze from being too thick?

Add a little extra milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable consistency.

Is this cake best served warm or cold?

Either! It’s delicious warm but also tastes amazing chilled.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that delivers all the flavors of a cinnamon roll in a soft, moist cake. With its gooey cinnamon filling and creamy glaze, every bite is pure comfort. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of sweet, spiced perfection!

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