Why Make This Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the classic flavors of a cinnamon roll in a convenient cake form. It’s perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat for yourself and your family. This recipe is appealing because it combines a moist yellow cake with creamy frosting and a sweet cinnamon filling that soaks right in. If you love satisfied smiles at dessert time, this cake will help you achieve just that!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Making Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is straightforward and fun! You’ll find that with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that everyone will love. The process involves baking a cake, poking holes for the sweet filling, and topping it with creamy frosting. It’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Get ready to bake a treat that will become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water or milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tub (16 oz) cream cheese frosting
Directions
- Prepare the yellow cake mix using eggs, oil, and water or milk as directed on the package. Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake according to package instructions.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the top of the cake.
- Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake and gently swirl it into the top using a knife or skewer.
- Allow the cake to cool completely. Warm the cream cheese frosting slightly in the microwave, then spread it evenly over the cake.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Slice and enjoy cold or at room temperature.
If you love delicious cakes, consider checking out this cherry chip cake for another flavor-packed dessert!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
This cake is great served cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dessert that suits any occasion. You can serve it as is, or for an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or tea enhances the sweet cinnamon flavor too.
How to Store Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
To keep your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for about 3 to 5 days. If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), this cake can be a tasty treat to enjoy later!
Tips to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
- Ensure your cake is cool before adding the sweetened condensed milk, or it may not soak in properly.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, don’t hesitate to increase the amount of ground cinnamon in the topping.
- Experiment with different flavored frostings, such as vanilla or buttercream, if cream cheese isn’t your favorite.
If you’re looking for more cake ideas, explore options like coconut hummingbird Easter cake and see how you can mix things up!
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for some extra crunch. Additionally, consider using different flavored cake mixes, such as spice cake, for a unique twist!

FAQs
Can I use a different frosting?
Yes! While cream cheese frosting is popular, you can use vanilla, chocolate, or any frosting that suits your taste.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days, which makes it perfect for parties.
Is this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, just use gluten-free cake mix instead of the regular yellow cake mix.
For more amazing cake recipes, check out banana bread with pancake mix for another delightful option!

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the yellow cake mix using eggs, oil, and water or milk as directed on the package. Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake according to package instructions.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the top of the cake.
- Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake and gently swirl it into the top using a knife or skewer.
- Allow the cake to cool completely. Warm the cream cheese frosting slightly in the microwave, then spread it evenly over the cake.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Slice and enjoy cold or at room temperature.
