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Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Patricia
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 1 box vanilla cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water

For the Cinnamon Filling:

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • ½ cup melted butter

For the Poke Filling:

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions
 

Step 1: Bake the Cake

  • Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions.
  • Prepare and bake the vanilla cake in a 9x13-inch baking dish following the instructions on the box.
  • Once baked, let the cake cool slightly (about 10 minutes).

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

  • In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until combined.

Step 3: Poke the Cake & Add the Fillings

  • Using the back of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes all over the cake, making sure they go deep to allow the filling to soak in.
  • Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
  • Drizzle the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the cake, ensuring it soaks into every bite.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  • Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, and continue beating until creamy and spreadable.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

  • Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Slice & Serve

  • Slice into squares, serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the cinnamon roll magic!

Notes

  1. Make Bigger Holes for Better Soaking – Use the handle of a wooden spoon instead of a fork to ensure the filling fully absorbs.
  2. Let It Sit Overnight for the Best Flavor – This cake gets better the longer it sits, as the cinnamon and condensed milk infuse into the cake.
  3. Use a Spice Cake Mix for More Warmth – Swap the vanilla cake mix for a spice cake mix for an even richer cinnamon roll taste.
  4. Add Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Sprinkle some on top for extra crunch and texture.
  5. Drizzle with a Simple Glaze – Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a drizzle that mimics classic cinnamon roll icing.