This cake reminds me of waking up to the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls baking. Soft, gooey, and topped with cream cheese frosting—it’s pure comfort in every bite! Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Imagine waking up to the delicious smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. The aroma fills your kitchen and makes your heart happy. This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake captures that comforting feeling in every bite. It’s soft, gooey, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that brings everything together. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you want to treat yourself and others.
In this article, you will learn why this poke cake is so special and how to make it. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a friendly get-together, or simply craving something sweet, this cake will surely impress.
Why you’ll love this recipe
There are many reasons to love this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. First and foremost, it’s easy to make. You don’t need to be a baking expert to create this masterpiece. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store.
Secondly, this cake is incredibly delicious. The flavors of cinnamon and sugar mix beautifully, providing that familiar taste of fresh cinnamon rolls. With each bite, you will experience that warm, buttery goodness that will make you feel cozy inside.
Lastly, the presentation of this cake is stunning. The cream cheese frosting on top not only adds sweetness but also makes the cake visually appealing. You can easily serve it at parties, and your guests will be impressed by how fantastic it looks.
How to prepare Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Preparing this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a straightforward process. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious cake that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of water
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 cup of brown sugar
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons of milk (to desired consistency)
Instructions:
Preheat your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly.
Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until the batter is smooth. You can use a hand mixer or just a whisk.
Add Cinnamon and Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Then, gently fold this mixture into the cake batter until well combined.
Prepare Your Cake Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Pour the Batter: Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Make the Cinnamon Filling: In another small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined. Drizzle this mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl it slightly into the cake batter.
Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Poke the Cake: Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. Then, using the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced. This step allows the filling to seep into the cake, making it more flavorful.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the cooled cake, filling in the holes as you go.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake sit for a little while to allow the frosting to set. Cut into squares and serve it to your family and friends.
How to serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is perfect for any occasion. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. It goes wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea and is a fantastic dessert for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert after lunch or dinner.
You can also add extra toppings if you wish. Some people enjoy drizzling a little more melted butter over the frosting and sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar on top. This adds an extra touch and enhances the cinnamon flavor.
If you have any leftovers, this cake can be stored for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.
How to store Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Storing your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is easy. Follow these simple steps to keep it fresh:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a couple of days, you can store it at room temperature. Just cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator: If you want to keep it longer, storing it in the refrigerator is a good option. Make sure to cover it tightly before placing it in the fridge. This will keep the frosting fresh and prevent it from picking up any other odors from your fridge.
Freezing: If you want to make this cake ahead of time, you can freeze it. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then enjoy!
Preparation tips for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
To make the preparation of this cake even easier, consider these simple tips:
Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, use ingredients that are at room temperature. This includes eggs, cream cheese, and butter. Room temperature ingredients mix better and create a smoother batter.
Sifting Ingredients: While it’s not always necessary, sifting flour and powdered sugar can help in achieving a fluffier cake. It’s an extra step, but it can make a difference.
Use Quality Ingredients: Using good quality vanilla extract and real butter can enhance the flavor of your cake. It’s the little details that can take your baking to the next level.
Don’t Overmix: When you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Variation
While this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is delicious as it is, you can always make it your own! Here are some fun variations:
Add Walnuts or Pecans: If you enjoy nuts, chop some and mix them into your batter or sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the batter or even mix cocoa powder into the cake mix for a chocolate twist on this classic flavor.
Fruits: You can add cooked apples or other fruits to the batter for a fruity version. Just make sure to adjust the sugar to account for the sweetness of the fruit.
Different Frosting: If cream cheese frosting isn’t your favorite, consider using vanilla buttercream, whipped cream, or even a glaze instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with any flavor you like. Chocolate or vanilla would work well too. Just keep in mind that it might change the overall flavor profile.
2. How long does this cake last?
When stored properly, Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost and serve.
4. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, this cake freezes very well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and let it thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it.
5. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Of course! If you prefer a different flavor or style of frosting, feel free to experiment with chocolate frosting, whipped cream, or even a simple glaze to fit your taste.
Now you have a comprehensive guide to making the perfect Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake! With its delicious flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!
