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Delicious cinnamon roll poke cake with cream cheese frosting and cinnamon swirl.

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

A delightful dessert that combines the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with a moist poke cake, perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 15.25 oz yellow cake mix Use your favorite yellow cake mix brand.
  • 3 large eggs Make sure they are at room temperature.
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil.
  • 1 cup water For richer flavor, consider using whole milk.
For the cinnamon filling
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter Melted before mixing.
  • 0.75 cup packed brown sugar Light or dark brown sugar can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon Adjust to taste.
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk Dairy-based, adds creaminess.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use pure vanilla extract for best flavor.
For the frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese Softened for easy mixing.
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter Softened.
  • 2 cups powdered sugar Sifted if clumpy.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Can be omitted for simplicity.
  • 2 tablespoons milk Add more for desired consistency.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Beat according to package directions until smooth.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cinnamon Filling
  1. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla until smooth and warm.
  2. Once the cake is baked, let it cool for 5 minutes. Poke holes across the warm cake using the handle of a wooden spoon, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  3. Slowly pour the cinnamon filling over the cake, allowing it to settle into the holes.
Frosting and Serving
  1. Let the cake cool completely.
  2. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, beating until creamy and spreadable.
  3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  4. Refrigerate briefly if desired, then slice and serve.

Notes

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Pairs perfectly with whipped cream and coffee. Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.