Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake – A Soft, Gooey, & Irresistible Dessert

If you love cinnamon rolls and cake, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert fusion! A soft vanilla cake infused with cinnamon sugar swirls, soaked in a rich cream cheese glaze, and topped with a buttery cinnamon drizzle. It’s perfect for brunch, holiday gatherings, or any sweet craving!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup milk or buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment Needed

✅ 9×13-inch Baking Dish – Perfect for poke cakes
✅ Mixing Bowls – For the cake batter and fillings
✅ Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – To blend the glaze smoothly
✅ Wooden Spoon or Skewer – To create holes for soaking
✅ Spatula – To spread layers evenly

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

2. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:

1. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Once the cake is out of the oven, use a wooden spoon handle or skewer to poke holes all over the cake.
3. Pour the cinnamon filling evenly into the holes, letting it soak in.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add milk and vanilla extract, mixing until pourable.
3. Drizzle over the warm cake, letting it seep into the poked holes.

4. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

1. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Drizzle over the cake for extra flavor and a caramelized touch.

Serving Suggestions

🔥 Serve warm for a gooey, cinnamon roll-like texture.
🍨 Pair with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
☕ Enjoy with coffee or a chai latte for the ultimate cinnamon spice pairing.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Sugar: 30g

💡 Looking for a healthier version?
✅ Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
✅ Swap coconut sugar for brown sugar.
✅ Try a sugar-free cake mix for a lower-carb version.