If you’re looking for a decadent treat that combines the cozy flavors of a classic breakfast favorite with all the fuss-free joy of a poke cake, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is for you. It features moist vanilla cake infused with ribbons of cinnamon and brown sugar, all soaked with luscious sweetened condensed milk and topped with a creamy glaze. Every forkful tastes just like your favorite gooey cinnamon roll — only easier to share and even more irresistible. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for holidays, brunches, or anytime that cinnamon-sugar craving hits!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Cake:
- 1 box vanilla or white cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box)
Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Topping:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preparing your vanilla or white cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan, smoothing it out to the edges. Bake the cake as directed until it’s golden, risen, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This base layer is all about creating a tender, fluffy canvas to soak up those delicious flavors!
Step 2: Poke Holes in Your Cake
While the cake is still warm and super soft, grab the handle of a wooden spoon and gently poke holes all over the cake, spacing them every 1-2 inches or so. Don’t be shy! These holes are what make a poke cake so special — they’ll fill with cinnamon-sugar and sweet milk, creating delightful pockets of flavor in every slice.
Step 3: Infuse with Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together until well combined. While the cake is still warm, sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly over the entire surface, letting it fall into the nooks and poke holes. For an even more “cinnamon roll” finish, you can swirl in a bit of melted butter at this step (see the notes for extra decadence!), creating gooey swirls reminiscent of your favorite bakery treat.
Step 4: Pour on Sweetened Condensed Milk
Open your can of sweetened condensed milk and slowly pour it over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak down into the holes. This step is pure magic — the milk seeps through the cinnamon-sugar, flavoring and moistening the cake from top to bottom. Now, let the cake cool completely so all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Mix and Drizzle the Glaze
Once your cake is cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until you have a super smooth, pourable glaze. Drizzle it generously over the top of the cake, letting it settle into every crevice. This classic sweet topping brings the whole Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake together, just like the icing on a perfect cinnamon roll!
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate your finished cake for at least one hour before serving. This not only helps the flavors harmonize but also makes the cake easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake chilled from the fridge or let it warm to room temperature for an extra ooey-gooey touch.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Garnishes
Elevate each slice by adding a few finishing touches! A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream looks beautiful and compliments the cinnamon warmth. For even more classic flair, try a drizzle of cream cheese icing or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon and brown sugar just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own, but you can round out your spread with seasonal fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, blueberries, or orange segments for brightness. Hot coffee, chai, or a creamy latte are also perfect partners that echo the rich flavors of the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this cake into a showstopper for special occasions by cutting it into petite squares and arranging on a decorative platter, or building a dessert tower with alternating layers of cake and whipped cream in clear glasses for a parfait-style treat. For parties, serve it as part of a brunch buffet alongside other breakfast favorites so guests can help themselves to a slice of cinnamon bliss!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake covered tightly in the fridge. It will stay moist and delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying just one delicious slice at a time throughout the week.
Freezing
If you need to freeze the cake, cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Store in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best taste and texture.
Reheating
Want to enjoy your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake warm? Simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds to gently soften and bring out that gooey cinnamon swirl flavor again. If you’ve frozen the cake, make sure it’s fully thawed before reheating for the fluffiest results.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake base instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite vanilla or white cake recipe, you can use it in place of the boxed mix. Just be sure to bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and follow the rest of the steps as written for the perfect Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute a gluten-free vanilla or white cake mix for the traditional one. Be sure the other ingredients (especially the sweetened condensed milk and glaze components) are also gluten-free, and you’ll have a fantastic gluten-free version of Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake!
Do I have to chill the cake before serving?
Chilling isn’t strictly required, but it really helps the flavors meld and makes the cake hold its shape for easy slicing. If you’re in a rush, letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes after glazing will still yield a mouthwatering treat!
What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
While the sweetened condensed milk is what gives this cake its signature moistness and flavor, you could swap in a mixture of half-and-half or cream plus a little sugar if absolutely necessary. However, for the true Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake experience, sweetened condensed milk is best.
How do I make the glaze extra thick or thin?
If you love a thick, luscious glaze, add a little more powdered sugar. To thin it out for easier drizzling, add milk just a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the vanilla as you go for the perfect finish on your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something warm, gooey, and bursting with cinnamon-sugar nostalgia, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s a guaranteed hit—so gather your friends and family, whip it up, and enjoy every sweet, cinnamon-laced bite!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in the form of a moist and decadent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. This easy-to-make dessert features a vanilla cake soaked in sweetened condensed milk and topped with a cinnamon-infused glaze.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box vanilla or white cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box)
Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Topping:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Mix and bake the cake according to the package instructions in a 9×13-inch pan.
- Create Cinnamon Swirl: While warm, poke holes in the cake and sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Add Topping: Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake to soak into the holes. Let the cake cool.
- Make Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, swirl melted butter into the cinnamon mix before adding to the cake.
- Enhance with whipped cream or a cream cheese drizzle for added indulgence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
