Delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a perfect mash-up of two classic desserts, bringing together the warmth and flavor of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity and convenience of a poke cake.

This recipe transforms a humble white cake mix into a soft, moist cake filled with gooey cinnamon sugar, then tops it with a rich cream cheese frosting reminiscent of your favorite bakery cinnamon roll.

Not only is it quick to prepare—often under an hour from start to finish—but it’s also easy enough for beginners, customizable for any occasion, and ideal for feeding a crowd. Whether for brunch, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this cake will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients Checklist

To make an irresistibly gooey Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, gather the following ingredients. Each one contributes to the classic cinnamon roll flavor, and many can be easily substituted to suit dietary needs.

For the Cake Base:

• 1 box (approx. 15.25 oz) white or yellow cake mix
  Choose your preferred brand, or use homemade cake for extra flair.

• Ingredients required by cake mix (usually eggs, oil or butter, water or milk)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  Enhances the cake’s aroma and depth.

• Pinch of salt
  Optional, balances sweetness and sharpens flavors.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  Can use salted butter; reduce added salt if so.

• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  Adds a caramel note and gooey texture.

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  Adjust for desired spiciness.

• 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
  Creates moisture and richness.

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Poke and Soak:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  This is poured into the cake holes for extra gooeyness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 1/2 – 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  Start with less and add to taste for desired thickness.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  For spreading consistency.

Optional Add-Ins & Toppings:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  For crunch and nutty flavor.

• Pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
  For a bakery-style twist.

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

• Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Special Equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking pan
  Glass or metal both work; glass may require slightly longer baking.

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
  For the creamiest frosting.

• Mixing bowls (at least two)

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wooden spoon handle or thick skewer
  For poking holes.

• Rubber spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is straightforward, but careful attention to each step ensures bakery-quality results every time. Here’s how to get the best texture and flavor:

1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Mix the Cake:
Prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions, substituting milk for water for a richer crumb if desired. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

3. Bake:
Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (typically 25–30 minutes). Baking times can vary, so begin checking at the 25-minute mark.

4. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
While the cake bakes, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom.

5. Poke and Fill:
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes—just until warm. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a thick skewer, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart, going nearly to the bottom but not through. Pour the warm cinnamon mixture over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.

6. Add More Gooeyness:
Slowly pour the can of sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it soaks into the poked holes for an ultra-moist, decadent crumb. Tilt the pan gently if needed to distribute evenly.

7. Chill:
Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step ensures the filling sets and flavors meld.

8. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fully combined. Mix in vanilla extract and enough milk or cream to reach a spreadable consistency. Beat for an additional minute for a fluffy texture.

9. Frost and Finish:
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled, chilled cake. For a classic look, swirl with a spatula. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon, chopped nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

10. Slice and Serve:
Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Results

Achieving a soft, gooey, bakery-worthy poke cake is simple with these expert tips.

• Don’t Overbake: Slightly underbake the cake for an extra-moist texture—poke cakes should be tender, not dry.

• Even Holes: Space holes evenly and don’t poke through the bottom. This ensures the filling distributes but the cake doesn’t fall apart.

• Cool Before Frosting: Letting the cake chill before frosting prevents melting and ensures smooth, stable cream cheese topping.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened cream cheese and butter make for lump-free, creamy frosting.

• Customize the Flavor: Add orange or lemon zest to the filling for a hint of brightness, or substitute pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

• Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. Flavors deepen overnight, and it slices beautifully when cold.

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a gluten-free cake mix and double-check all labels on additional ingredients.

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based cake mix and swap in vegan condensed milk and cream cheese. Margarine works well in the frosting.

Serving Suggestions

How you serve your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake can make it even more memorable. Consider these ideas for every occasion:

• With a Warm Beverage: Pair with coffee, spiced chai, or a latte for a cozy brunch or dessert.

• A La Mode: Serve with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a classic hot-and-cold combination.

• Fruit Garnish: Top with sliced bananas, roasted apples, or fresh berries to balance the sweetness.

• Festive Plating: Dust with extra cinnamon and powdered sugar, and garnish each slice with a cinnamon stick or candied pecans.

• Buffet-Style: For potlucks, slice the cake into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks for easy sharing.

• For Special Occasions: Add a caramel drizzle or white chocolate shavings to elevate the look for holidays or birthdays.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a celebration of comforting flavors and easy baking. This recipe combines soft, fluffy cake with gooey cinnamon swirls and tangy cream cheese frosting—capturing the essence of cinnamon rolls in every bite.

The straightforward preparation, versatile ingredient options, and ability to serve a crowd make it a standout choice for any dessert table. Feel free to experiment with toppings and mix-ins to make it uniquely yours.

With proper storage, leftovers stay delicious for days, making this cake both a crowd-pleaser and a reliable make-ahead treat. Enjoy every moist, cinnamon-laced bite!