If you adore the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but want a simpler way to enjoy them, then you are absolutely going to love this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic dessert that combines the moistness of a yellow cake with the sweet swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar, all topped off with a luscious glaze. This cake offers all the cozy happiness of cinnamon rolls with far less fuss, making it perfect for sharing with family or friends any time you crave a warm, comforting treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe keeps things delightfully simple yet packed with flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and softness that makes this dessert so irresistible.
- Yellow cake mix: The base of our cake, providing that tender crumb and subtle vanilla flavor.
- Large eggs: These bring structure to the cake, helping it rise and stay moist.
- Milk: Adds richness and moisture, ensuring every bite is soft and luscious.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a warm aromatic touch.
- Dark brown sugar: The secret to that deep, caramel-like sweetness in the cinnamon swirl.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings the signature spicy warmth that cinnamon rolls are famous for.
- Powdered sugar: Used for the glaze, it smooths out the sweetness and adds a delicate finish.
- Melted butter: Blended into the glaze for richness and a silky texture.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is key because the even heat ensures a beautifully baked cake, and greasing the pan will help you easily remove the cake without any sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter and Cinnamon Swirl
Combine the cake mix with the three large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and creamy. Then, layer in the cinnamon mixture made by mixing 1/4 cup of dark brown sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This creates those pockets of sweet, spicy goodness that make the cake irresistible.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is cooked through but still moist — a vital aspect of this poke cake’s charm.
Step 4: Cool, Poke, and Glaze
Once your cake has cooled, it’s time to gently poke holes all over the surface using the handle of a wooden spoon or similar tool. Then, mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1/4 cup of melted butter to create your glaze. Pour this delicious glaze over the cake, letting it seep into the holes, infusing every bite with extra sweetness and buttery flavor.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe even more, consider topping it with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful finishing touch and a bit of extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to contrast the warm, spiced flavors. For a cozy brunch vibe, serve it alongside a cup of hot coffee or chai tea for the perfect flavor pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cake in cute mini casserole dishes or individual ramekins to impress guests. You could also drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top or add fresh berries to bring in an extra burst of color and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for about 4 days. Cover it well to ensure it stays moist and doesn’t absorb any freezer odors.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then again in foil, or store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftover cake, warm a slice in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds to bring back that soft, freshly-baked feeling. If you’ve frozen the cake, let it thaw completely before heating to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind the flavors should complement cinnamon and brown sugar well.
Is it necessary to poke holes in the cake?
Yes, poking holes allows the glaze to seep deep into the cake, which creates those moist, flavorful pockets that make this poke cake extra special.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
You can prepare the glaze ahead, but it’s best to add it to the cake just before serving or after the cake has cooled fully so it doesn’t soak in too early.
Do I need to use melted butter in the glaze?
Melted butter adds richness and gives the glaze a smooth texture, but you can substitute with cream cheese for a tangier glaze if you prefer a cream cheese frosting twist.
How do I store the cake if I don’t finish it in one sitting?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container either at room temperature for a couple of days or in the fridge to keep it fresh and moist. This way, every slice tastes as delightful as the first.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines all the charm of homemade cinnamon rolls with the ease and versatility of a classic cake, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s truly a comfort food hug in cake form, and I can’t wait for you to experience all the warm, spiced goodness it brings to your table. Happy baking!
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Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the ease of a classic yellow cake mix with the sweet, spicy flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, finished with a luscious glaze that seeps into every bite. Perfectly moist and bursting with comforting cinnamon roll taste, it’s an effortless dessert that delights any crowd.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Filling
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix and assemble cake: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining cake batter on top, spreading it carefully to cover the cinnamon layer.
- Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and poke holes: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar tool to poke numerous holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Add glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar with melted butter to form a smooth glaze. Pour this glaze evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes, creating a moist, flavorful interior. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best results.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and milk to ensure a smooth batter.
- For an extra cinnamon punch, sprinkle additional cinnamon on top before glazing.
- You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a vanilla cake mix if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
