Description
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a luscious, moist dessert that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla with a rich cream cheese frosting. Made with a simple vanilla cake base, it features a gooey cinnamon filling poured into poked holes for maximum flavor infusion, then topped with fluffy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 box of vanilla (white) cake mix, prepared as directed on the box
For the Filling Mixture:
- 5 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
For the Frosting:
- 8 tablespoons (½ cup) butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons clear vanilla flavoring
- 2 teaspoons half-and-half cream
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool slightly. Use the back of a spoon to poke holes evenly throughout the entire cake surface.
- Make the Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated.
- Soak the Cake: Pour the warm filling mixture steadily over the cake, ensuring it seeps deeply into the holes you poked. Let the cake absorb the mixture for about 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla flavoring and half-and-half cream, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting becomes fluffy and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake: Evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled, soaked cake. Slice into servings and enjoy this decadent cinnamon roll-inspired poke cake!
Notes
- You can use any brand of vanilla cake mix or make your own from scratch.
- Ensure the cake is warm but not hot when pouring the filling so it absorbs better.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle additional cinnamon powder on top of the frosting.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
