Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get a bit hectic. That’s why I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. This delightful treat combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine a moist, tender cake soaked in buttery cinnamon syrup, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Sounds heavenly, right? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a game-changer for dessert lovers! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The flavor is out of this world, with that warm cinnamon goodness that wraps around your taste buds like a cozy blanket. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, so you can impress family and friends without breaking a sweat. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Let’s gather our ingredients for this delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake! Each component plays a vital role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Vanilla or white cake mix: This is the base of our cake, providing a light and fluffy texture.
- Large eggs: Eggs add moisture and help bind the ingredients together, giving the cake its structure.
- Vegetable oil: This keeps the cake moist and tender, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Milk or water: I prefer milk for a richer flavor, but water works just fine if you’re in a pinch.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds a rich, buttery flavor to the cinnamon filling, making it extra indulgent.
- Brown sugar: This sweetener brings a deep, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: The star of the show! It infuses the cake with that warm, cozy flavor we all love.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delightful.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is the key to our luscious frosting, giving it that creamy texture.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that perfect spreadable consistency.
- Milk (for frosting): A little milk helps adjust the frosting’s consistency, making it easy to spread.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for printing. Now, let’s get ready to bake this scrumptious cake!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part: making this delightful Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that will wow everyone.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well. This will help our cake slide out easily once it’s baked. Trust me, you don’t want to lose any of this deliciousness!
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. I love using a hand mixer for this, but a whisk works just fine too. The batter should be thick and luscious, ready to be transformed into a cake!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of the baking cake will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Filling
While the cake is baking, let’s whip up that heavenly cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. This mixture is what makes our Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake so special. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Step 5: Poke and Pour
Once the cake is out of the oven and has cooled for about 10 minutes, grab a wooden spoon. Use the handle to poke holes all over the warm cake. Don’t be shy—make plenty of holes! Then, pour the cinnamon filling over the cake, letting it seep into those holes. This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Cool the Cake
Set the cake aside to cool completely. This step is crucial! If you frost it while it’s still warm, the frosting will melt away. Patience is key here, but I promise it’ll be worth the wait!
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Now, let’s make that dreamy cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Finally, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. You can be generous here—after all, who doesn’t love extra frosting? For a finishing touch, consider dusting a bit of cinnamon on top or drizzling with caramel sauce. Your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is now ready to shine!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it ensures the frosting stays intact.
- For a richer flavor, opt for whole milk instead of water.
- Feel free to adjust the cinnamon to your taste—more is always better!
- Store leftovers in the fridge to keep the cake fresh and moist.
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any similar-sized pan will work.
- Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for the batter and a smaller one for the filling.
- Hand mixer or whisk: A hand mixer makes it easier, but a whisk will do just fine.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for poking holes in the cake and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Variations
- Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Swap out the vanilla cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a decadent twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for a delightful crunch.
- Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace vanilla extract with maple extract in the frosting for a unique flavor.
- Fruit-Infused: Add fresh apples or pears to the batter for a fruity surprise in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Coffee: A warm slice of Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake goes perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
- Ice Cream Delight: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Fresh Berries: Add a side of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle caramel sauce for an eye-catching finish.
- Perfect for Brunch: This cake makes a delightful addition to any brunch spread!
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
As I’ve shared my love for this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, I know you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my answers to help you on your baking journey!
Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge after it cools completely. Frost it right before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can use whipped topping or buttercream frosting instead. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit!
How do I store leftovers of the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to five days. Just be prepared for the cake to disappear quickly!
Can I freeze the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Just make sure it’s completely cooled and wrapped tightly. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Serve it chilled or at room temperature. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of cinnamon on top makes it even more irresistible!
Final Thoughts
Making this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The aroma of cinnamon wafting through your home will wrap around you like a warm hug, inviting everyone to gather around. Each slice is a delightful blend of flavors that brings smiles and satisfaction. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat, this cake is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of baking, and let this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake become a cherished favorite in your home!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Indulge in This Delightful Treat!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist, tender vanilla cake soaked in buttery cinnamon sugar syrup, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting — just like your favorite cinnamon rolls but in cake form!
Ingredients
- 1 box (430 g) vanilla or white cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk or water
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, eggs, oil, and milk until smooth.
- Pour into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the warm cake.
- Pour the cinnamon filling over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
- Set aside to cool completely.
- Beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; beat until fluffy.
- Add milk gradually until smooth and spreadable.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Optionally dust with a bit of cinnamon or drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of water.
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before adding the frosting.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
