If you dream about all the gooey, cinnamon-swirled joys of a cinnamon roll but want an easy, crowd-pleasing twist, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake will soon be your new obsession. Imagine a moist, fluffy cake infused with ribbons of brown sugar and cinnamon, then drenched in sweetened condensed milk that sinks into every irresistible pocket. To top it all off, there’s a creamy, tangy cream cheese glaze that brings every bite together for melt-in-your-mouth magic. Whether you’re making dessert for a holiday brunch or simply need something cozy to brighten up your week, Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is comfort food at its very best.

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe has a purpose, contributing to those signature bakery-fresh flavors and the uniquely soft, gooey texture that sets Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake apart. Let’s break them down so you know exactly why each one is key to baking success.

Box white or yellow cake mix: The quick, reliable shortcut to a perfect, fluffy cake base every time.
Brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and classic cinnamon roll sweetness that melts deliciously into the cake.
Ground cinnamon: The essence of any cinnamon roll treat, providing that tell-tale warmth and spice in every bite.
Sweetened condensed milk: Poured over the cake for maximum moisture and those dreamy, fudgy pockets of sweetness.
Cream cheese (softened): Forms the backbone of the glaze, offering a gentle tang to balance the sweetness.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves beautifully into the glaze for a silky-smooth finish you can drizzle on generously.
Milk: Loosens the glaze just enough to make it pourable—and easily slides over every delicious crevice.
Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant, mellow roundness to the glaze for bakery-level depth.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Cake Mix

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Prepare the cake mix according to the box instructions—mixing in eggs, oil, and water as directed—then pour the batter evenly into your prepared dish. This step sets the stage for that pillowy, bakery-style base every Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake needs.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Slide your cake into the oven and bake according to the time recommended on the package (usually about 28–32 minutes). The cake should be lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, confirming it’s ready. Let it cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes so it’s warm, but not piping hot—this makes the next step extra effective.

Step 3: Poke and Infuse

Grab a wooden spoon with a round handle and, while the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the surface, spacing them about an inch apart. Next, blend your brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture evenly across the warm cake. Watch as it gently melts into the holes, infusing the cake with signature cinnamon roll flavor. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it seep into every little crevice and hole for gooey, caramelized bites.

Step 4: Cool Completely

Give your cake time to fully cool—this allows the flavors to settle and absorb, ensuring every slice is ultra-soft and rich. Waiting might be the hardest part, but this step takes your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake from tasty to unforgettable.

Step 5: Make and Drizzle the Cream Cheese Glaze

Now for the pièce de résistance: the glaze! Beat the softened cream cheese until it’s totally smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. You’re after a pourable, silky glaze, so add an extra tablespoon of milk if you’d like it thinner. Drizzle the glaze over your fully cooled cake, letting it cascade into the poked holes and decorating the top in luxurious swirls.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

To set the glaze and blend all those glorious flavors, pop the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour before slicing. Chilling gives Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake its signature texture—soft, creamy, and completely decadent. Then just slice, serve, and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Garnishes

A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top makes your cake instantly eye-catching. Or, scatter on a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch and a pretty finish. A few curls of white chocolate take the experience to a whole new level of bakery-chic!

Side Dishes

Since Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is sweet, rich, and a little indulgent, pair it with a strong cup of coffee or some cold brew for balance. Fresh berries, especially tart raspberries or strawberries, cut through the richness and add a pop of color. If serving at brunch, keep it classic with crisp bacon, scrambled eggs, or a simple fruit salad on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake as delightful parfaits by layering cake cubes and glaze in clear glasses, or slice into elegant rectangles and arrange on a platter with extra glaze for dipping. For parties, try cutting the cake into mini squares and topping each with a swirl of cream cheese frosting or a cinnamon stick for a fun finger-food twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain its soft, moist texture. Stored properly, it stays delicious for up to four days—just make sure it’s well-wrapped to keep it from drying out or absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results; the texture will still be wonderfully tender and the flavors bold and satisfying.

Reheating

If you like your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake a little warm, just pop a slice in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds. The glaze will soften and the cake becomes extra gooey—almost like a cinnamon roll straight from the oven! Enjoy it slightly chilled or gently warmed for the best of both worlds.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake base instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! You can substitute your favorite homemade white or yellow cake recipe. As long as you bake it in a 9×13-inch dish, the rest of the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake process stays the same and your homemade touch will shine.

What if I want more cinnamon flavor?

If you’re a true cinnamon lover, swirl a little cinnamon-sugar mixture directly into the cake batter before baking, or add a bit more cinnamon to the topping. You can even mix a tiny pinch into the glaze for an extra kick!

Can I use a different glaze?

Yes! While the cream cheese glaze is classic for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, you can swap in a simple vanilla icing or even drizzle with caramel if you’re craving something different. Adjust the sweetness to your liking and have fun experimenting.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

You sure can—just use a gluten-free cake mix as your base and check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The result will be every bit as delicious and comforting.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because of the cream cheese glaze and the condensed milk, refrigeration is recommended. Not only does this keep it safe and fresh, but chilling also improves the texture and flavor, making each bite extra luscious.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, one bite and you’ll understand why Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake wins hearts at every gathering. From its pillowy crumb to the creamy glaze and gooey cinnamon filling, it truly delivers everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make, sliceable form. Don’t wait for a holiday or special event—treat yourself and the people you love to this ultimate comfort dessert soon!

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of cinnamon rolls in the form of a moist and decadent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. This easy dessert combines the warmth of cinnamon with a creamy cream cheese glaze for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake:

1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:

1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Glaze:

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix and bake: Mix and bake the cake according to package instructions. After baking, let it cool for 5–10 minutes.
Poke holes: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
Cinnamon Sugar Layer: Combine brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the warm cake.
Add condensed milk: Slowly pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let it cool.
Cream Cheese Glaze: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.