Description
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the ease of a simple cake bake. The vanilla cake is poked with holes and soaked in a rich cinnamon-butter filling, then topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 box of vanilla (white) cake mix, prepared as directed on the box
For the Filling Mixture:
- 5 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
For the Frosting:
- 8 tablespoons (½ cup) butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons clear vanilla flavoring
- 2 teaspoons half-and-half cream
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package directions, then bake it as instructed. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool slightly so it’s warm but not hot. Using the back of a spoon, gently poke holes evenly throughout the cake to allow the filling to soak in.
- Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until fully blended and creamy.
- Soak the Cake: Pour the warm filling mixture evenly over the poke holes in the cake, ensuring it seeps deeply into each hole. Allow the cake to absorb the filling for about 15 minutes for maximum flavor infusion.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Add the clear vanilla flavoring, half-and-half cream, and powdered sugar, beating continuously until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled, soaked cake. Slice into 15 servings and serve fresh for a delightful cinnamon roll-inspired treat.
Notes
- For best results, allow the cake to cool slightly before poking holes and pouring the filling to prevent the holes from closing up.
- Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for a smoother frosting texture.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top of the frosting before serving.
