Cinnamon Roll Poke Dessert Cake
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is an ideal shortcut for anyone who enjoys the soft, gooey center of a classic cinnamon roll but wants a simpler, no-yeast approach. By creating holes in a freshly baked vanilla cake, a rich cinnamon-butter mixture soaks deep into the cake, making every bite incredibly moist and full of warm, spiced flavor. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, it offers that familiar bakery-style taste with much less work.
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box (15 1/4 oz) vanilla or white cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 tablespoon milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cake mix, milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla for about 2 minutes. Using milk and butter instead of water and oil helps create a richer, more homemade flavor.
Step 2: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling
While the cake is baking, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until the mixture becomes thick and syrup-like.
Step 4: Poke and Soak
Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface, about 1 inch apart. Slowly spoon the cinnamon mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely, about 1 hour.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fully combined. If needed, add milk a little at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Frost and Chill
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Use the back of a spoon to create soft swirls for a cinnamon roll-inspired look. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
