Decadent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for those who crave the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls without the hassle of making them from scratch. This decadent treat features a moist white cake infused with a buttery brown sugar cinnamon syrup and topped with rich cream cheese frosting. In just a little over an hour, you can whip up this delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of a traditional cinnamon roll.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

It combines the best elements of a gooey cinnamon roll and a moist cake.
Perfect for breakfast or dessert, making it versatile for any occasion.
Easy to prepare, requiring minimal kitchen skills (great for beginners!).
Rich cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tanginess.
Ideal for sharing with friends and family during gatherings.
Customize with various toppings like nuts or caramel drizzle.

This easy Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is also vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a wider audience.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Gather these items:

1 box white cake mix (Plus ingredients on box)
1 tsp vanilla extract (For cake batter)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (Melted, for filling)
3/4 cup light brown sugar (Packed)
1 tbsp ground cinnamon (Divided use)
1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk (Optional)
8 oz cream cheese (Softened)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (Softened, for frosting)
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar (Sifted)

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F; prepare and bake cake mix in a 9×13 pan as directed.
Step 2: Poke holes all over the warm cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Whisk melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and condensed milk; pour over cake.
Step 4: Cool cake completely, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Step 5: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
Step 6: Spread frosting over cake, dust with cinnamon sugar, and serve.

Decadent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting - Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
For an extra twist, consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting.
Let the cake cool completely before adding frosting to prevent melting.

Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

This cake is a crowd-pleaser and can be served in various ways:

Enjoy it warm for a cozy dessert experience.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Serve it for breakfast alongside fresh fruit for a sweet start to your day.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that warm, gooey texture again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?

The key to a perfect Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake lies in ensuring that the cake is still warm when you poke it, allowing the syrup to soak in deeply for maximum flavor.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance, soak it with the syrup, and frost it just before serving for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake?

To prevent the cake from becoming too soggy, avoid over-soaking it with syrup after cooling. Follow the recommended cooling time closely.

Variations of Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans into the frosting or as a topping.
Drizzle with a homemade vanilla sauce for added sweetness.
Experiment with spices by adding nutmeg or vanilla to the cake mix for a unique flavor profile.

Decadent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting - Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Cinnamon Roll Cookies or Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, try Creamy Italian Sausage Soup or Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup.

For more tips on baking, you can refer to King Arthur Baking for expert advice and recipes.