Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe

If you love the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but want something quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, you must try this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls transformed into a moist, tender cake with swirls of cinnamon sugar and a luscious glaze that soaks into every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, this poke cake brings all those warm, nostalgic flavors without the fuss of rolling dough. Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s as simple as it is scrumptious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each playing a special role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the tender crumb of the yellow cake mix to the fragrant cinnamon sugar swirl and the sweet glaze that ties it all together, every component is crucial.

• Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): Provides a light, fluffy base that’s easy to prepare and tastes like homemade without the work.
• Water (1 cup): Moistens the cake batter, ensuring a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Large eggs (3): Adds richness and structure to the cake for that perfect rise.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender, giving it a soft texture.
• Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Combines with cinnamon to create the sweet, caramel-like swirl inside the cake.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The star spice that infuses the cake with that iconic cinnamon roll aroma and flavor.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Forms the base of the sweet glaze that soaks into the poked holes for extra moistness.
• Milk (2 tablespoons): Helps thin the glaze to a pourable consistency that seeps through the cake perfectly.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the glaze, complementing the cinnamon beautifully.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish carefully to ensure the cake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly. This simple prep sets the stage for your perfect cake base.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil. Using a mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the ingredients until smooth and fully combined. This creates the soft batter that will rise into a tender, golden cake.

Step 3: Pour the Batter Into the Pan

Pour your smooth batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. An even layer cooks consistently and provides the perfect canvas for the cinnamon swirl.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This magical mixture will be spooned over the batter and gently swirled for that signature cinnamon roll effect.

Step 5: Add Cinnamon Dollops to the Batter

Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the cake batter in random spots. Don’t worry about perfect placement — the swirling will blend them into an inviting marbled pattern.

Step 6: Swirl the Cinnamon into the Batter

Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar dollops into the batter. Drag the tool in a swirling motion throughout the batter to create a beautiful, marbled cinnamon effect that promises bursts of flavor in every slice.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake your cake in the preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step results in a perfectly cooked cake that’s tender and moist.

Step 8: Cool Slightly Before Poking

Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling time is key before you poke the holes for the glaze, so your cake holds together while still warm enough to absorb the glaze.

Step 9: Poke Holes All Over

Use the end of a wooden spoon or skewer to poke holes evenly all across the cake. Make sure to poke deep enough to reach through but not all the way through the bottom. These holes create little pockets for the glaze to seep into deliciously.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. This simple glaze is the final component that gives the cake its signature sweet, creamy finish, soaking into the cinnamon pockets for a delightful texture.

Step 11: Pour the Glaze Over the Cake

Slowly drizzle the glaze over the entire cake, letting it sink deep into those holes you poked earlier. This step coats the cake with luscious sweetness and keeps every bite moist and flavorful.

Step 12: Let It Set and Serve

Cool the cake until the glaze sets, then slice and serve. The balance of tender cake, cinnamon swirls, and sweet glaze makes this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe an absolute crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Add an extra touch of charm by garnishing with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Fresh whipped cream or a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can also add beautiful texture and flavor contrast that boosts the cake’s cozy vibe.

Side Dishes

Serve this poke cake alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a cold glass of milk for the perfect pairing. If you want to go all out, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced yogurt can turn it into an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try serving this cake in smaller, individual dessert dishes, drizzling extra glaze on each. You could also layer cake slices with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced fruit compote in parfait glasses for a stunning presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration helps keep it fresh longer, just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature before serving for moist, flavorful results.

Reheating

If you prefer your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. Warming intensifies the aroma of cinnamon and softens the glaze, making every bite feel fresh out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix for this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional for a light, buttery flavor, vanilla cake mix works just as well. Avoid chocolate or other flavored cake mixes that might overpower the cinnamon swirl.

How important is it to poke holes in the cake?

Poking holes is essential for this recipe because it allows the glaze to soak fully into the cake, keeping it incredibly moist and flavorful. Skipping this step will result in a drier texture and less glaze infusion.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake?

Definitely! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins before baking can add wonderful texture and depth. Just fold them into the batter right before pouring into the pan.

Is this cake best served warm or cold?

It’s delicious both ways! Warm servings bring out the cinnamon aroma and melt the glaze slightly, while chilled cake highlights the creamy glaze for a refreshing treat. Choose what suits your mood or occasion!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix of similar flavor and follow the recipe as usual. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It combines the irresistible flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a simple cake, making it perfect for busy days or when you just want to impress with minimal effort. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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