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Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines the warm, gooey flavors of cinnamon rolls with a rich, tender cake base. Infused with a spiced cinnamon-sugar filling and finished with a tangy cream cheese frosting, it's perfect for gatherings or a special treat any day of the week.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla or white cake mix
  • 1 cup milk use milk instead of water for richer flavor
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk to thin the frosting if needed

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Hand mixer
  • Wooden spoon
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, milk, melted unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy, then pour the batter into your prepared pan.
  3. Bake the cake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. While the cake bakes, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a bowl, stir together the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted unsalted butter until smooth and fragrant.
  5. Once the cake has finished baking and is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
  6. Pour the cinnamon filling over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into all of the holes.
  7. For the cream cheese frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired consistency.
  8. Allow the cake to cool completely, then spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Notes

For a delightful variation, try adding a half cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling for extra crunch. If you're not a fan of cream cheese frosting, a simple vanilla glaze works beautifully. You can also substitute coconut oil for butter and almond milk for a dairy-free version. This cake is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a cozy treat on a Tuesday.