Name: Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box); 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 can sweetened condensed milk; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk

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Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Ah, the joys of baking a sweet treat that feels as comforting as a warm hug! If you’re like me, you cherish those moments spent in the kitchen, whipping up something special. That’s why I’m excited to share my beloved Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake with you. This delightful dessert isn’t just delicious; it’s the perfect solution for busy days when you crave both cake and cinnamon rolls. Picture fluffy cake drenched in sweet, creamy goodness—an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up even on hectic nights. Trust me, your family will feel just as thrilled as you do when you serve it!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Imagine a dessert that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, and utterly scrumptious. My Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a no-fuss delight that comes together in just about an hour. With its rich flavors and creamy frosting, it’s bound to impress your loved ones without the stress of complicated baking. Whether for a family gathering or simply a sweet treat during the week, this cake shines in every way possible!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Before diving into the delightful world of my Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, let’s gather our magic ingredients! Each one plays a vital role in creating that sweet, indulgent flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Vanilla cake mix – This is the base of your cake, providing the light and fluffy structure.
Brown sugar – Adds a deep caramel sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Cinnamon – The star flavor, infusing warmth and a delightful spice into the cake.
Melted butter – Ensures the cake is moist, rich, and full of flavor.
Sweetened condensed milk – This creamy addition creates a delightful soak, making the cake incredibly moist and sweet.
Cream cheese – Softened and ready to blend, it adds a luscious creaminess to the frosting.
Unsalted butter – Most of us keep this on hand! It gives the frosting that perfect silky texture.
Powdered sugar – To sweeten the frosting and give it that creamy smoothness.
Vanilla extract – A splash elevates the frosting, enhancing the overall flavor.
Milk – Just a touch to ensure the frosting spreads easily and smoothly.

For those looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary preferences, I’ll share substitution tips at the end. And remember, all the ingredient measurements can be found at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Let’s get our hands a little messy, shall we? Making this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a fun and rewarding experience. Follow along step by step, and let your kitchen fill with incredible aromas!

Prepare and Bake the Cake

First things first, let’s grab that vanilla cake mix and whip it up!

Gather Your Ingredients

Gather your cake mix, eggs, oil, and water as listed on the box. It’s like a party waiting to happen!

Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your cake mix box. Prepare a 9×13-inch cake pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This little trick will help you avoid any sticky situations.

Mix the ingredients according to the package instructions. Once it’s all combined, pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake it in the preheated oven until a toothpick comes out clean, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Let it cool down for a few moments—try to be patient!

Create the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

While your cake is baking, let’s whip up that heavenly cinnamon sugar mixture. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until it resembles a thick paste. The aroma? Oh, divine! Your taste buds may start to dance in anticipation!

Poke Holes in the Cake

Once your cake has cooled down, it’s time for some fun! Use the back of a spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the cake. Don’t be shy; the more holes, the better! This will allow all those delicious flavors to seep in later.

Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Now grab that can of sweetened condensed milk and pour it evenly over the holes. Watch it trickle down and soak into the cake. Let the cake soak for a few minutes—imagine it drinking up all that creamy goodness!

Drizzle the Cinnamon-Sugar Butter Mixture

Next, drizzle that cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the surface. Let it seep down into those holes as well. This step is where the flavors meld together, creating a moist and flavorful cake that tastes like a warm hug!

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Now, it’s time for the pièce de résistance—the cream cheese frosting! In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just a splash of milk until it’s creamy and dreamy. You’ll want to taste it once or twice—just to ensure it’s as good as it sounds!

Frost the Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread that luscious frosting over the top. Don’t skimp; let it be generous! I like to swirl it around for a beautiful finish. Your kitchen will be filled with a sweet smell that will have everyone wandering in curiously.

Chill Before Serving

Lastly, pop the cake into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling it helps the flavors meld beautifully! Plus, it’s a refreshing treat, especially on warm days. Once chilled, slice it up and serve it to your eager guests—or maybe just yourself. You deserve it!

Tips for Success

Always allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
Feel free to customize the sweetness of the frosting by adjusting the powdered sugar.
If you want a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light.
Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cake for extra texture and flavor.
Serve chilled for the best taste and delightful texture.

Equipment Needed

9×13-inch cake pan – If you don’t have one, use two 8-inch round pans for a layered effect.
Mixing bowls – A good, sturdy bowl is essential. You can even use a large pot in a pinch!
Electric mixer – A whisk will do fine, but an electric mixer makes it easier.
Rubber spatula – Perfect for spreading frosting evenly. A spoon works too!
Toothpick – Handy for checking if your cake is baked through.

Variations

For a chocolate twist, use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla. It pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavors!
Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a nutty crunch in every bite.
Try adding some pumpkin spice to the cake mix for a delightful fall-inspired flavor!
Substitute the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream for a lighter option.
Turn it into a vegan treat by using a plant-based cake mix and almond milk for the frosting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast of flavors.
Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for added decadence.
Serve it alongside a warm cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy treat.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for a beautiful presentation!

FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

As I’ve whipped up my fair share of Cinnamon Roll Poke Cakes, I’ve gathered a few common questions that pop up. Let’s dive into them!

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just remember to keep it covered to maintain freshness. The flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit overnight!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to freeze it without the frosting. Once you want to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.

How should I store the leftover cake?
Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. I promise it’ll still be delicious, though it might not last long!

Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting?
Of course! If cream cheese isn’t your favorite, you can use whipped cream or a simple buttercream frosting. Both options will pair nicely with this cake.

What can I serve with the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?
This cake is delightful on its own but thrives with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy pairing!

Final Thoughts

Embracing the process of creating a Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake feels like welcoming a delicious tradition into your home. The blend of cozy cinnamon flavors and that indulgent cream cheese frosting creates a dessert that warms the heart. Every bite is a delightful reminder of the love and care that goes into homemade treats. Whether you’re sharing it with family or sneaking a slice for yourself, this cake brings smiles and sweet moments to life. So, grab your apron and get baking; you’ll cherish each sticky, sweet experience that leads to this unforgettable dessert!