If you love the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll but want an easier, no-fuss dessert, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is the perfect choice. It’s soft, moist, and loaded with buttery cinnamon-sugar goodness, topped with a rich and creamy frosting. Each bite tastes just like a gooey cinnamon roll, but with the convenience of a simple sheet cake.
This cake is perfect for holidays, brunches, potlucks, or a cozy family dessert. The “poke” method allows all the sweet, buttery filling to seep into the cake, creating an ultra-moist and flavorful treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make – Starts with a vanilla cake mix for quick prep. Irresistibly Moist – Sweetened condensed milk and buttery cinnamon filling keep it soft. Cinnamon Roll Flavor – All the flavors of a cinnamon roll in cake form. Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after chilling!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Bake in a 9×13-inch pan as directed.
- Let the cake cool slightly, but not completely.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
- Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
Step 4: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake for extra richness and moisture.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cake.
- Sprinkle with extra cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
Step 7: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or slightly warmed for an even gooier, cinnamon roll-like experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce for extra decadence.
- Sprinkle Chopped Pecans for a crunchy twist.
- Serve Slightly Warm for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
- Pair with Coffee or Milk for the ultimate cozy treat.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store in the Fridge: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for Later: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving. Make Ahead: Bake and frost the cake a day in advance for even better flavor!
Tips & Variations
For Extra Cinnamon Flavor: Drizzle with a simple cinnamon glaze (powdered sugar + milk + cinnamon).
For a Fluffier Cake: Use buttermilk instead of water in the cake mix.
For a Homemade Cake Base: Replace the cake mix with your favorite vanilla or yellow cake recipe.
For a Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkle on top.
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is the best of both worlds—quick and easy like a sheet cake but packed with all the rich, buttery, cinnamon goodness of a homemade cinnamon roll. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!