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Delicious Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake topped with creamy frosting and cinnamon

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

This indulgent dessert combines the nostalgia of classic cinnamon rolls with the ease of a poke cake, featuring a moist vanilla cake infused with brown sugar and cinnamon, drizzled with cream cheese frosting.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box) The base of our cake, providing a soft and tender crumb.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Brings a deep caramel-like richness.
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon Earthy, warm, and aromatic.
  • 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk A creamy, rich liquid for saturation.
  • 1/4 cup melted butter Adds moisture and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Complements the flavors beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Additional cinnamon for flavor.

For the frosting

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened Provides a velvety texture.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Creates a lovely glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons milk Ensures perfect pouring consistency.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the frosting flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Prepare the vanilla cake batter according to the package instructions.
  • Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon.
  • Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and bake as directed on the box.

Filling the cake

  • Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and a hint of cinnamon in a bowl.
  • Once the cake is baked and cooled for 5 minutes, poke holes all over the warm cake.
  • Pour the filling mixture over the cake, filling the holes and letting it soak for at least 20 minutes.

Frosting

  • In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  • Drizzle the cream cheese mixture over the cooled cake.

Serve

  • Slice and enjoy, serving at family gatherings or with coffee.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the cake batter and let the filling soak for the recommended time for best flavor.
Keyword Cinnamon Roll Cake, Comfort Food, Dessert, Poke Cake