If you have a soft spot for classic cinnamon rolls but want something quicker and more fun to make, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine the warm, swirly cinnamon goodness of your favorite breakfast, baked into a tender, moist cake and topped with a luscious glaze that seeps into every nook and cranny. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser and an irresistible treat that brings the best of cinnamon roll flavors into a delightfully easy dessert form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe plays an essential role in building that signature comforting flavor and ideal texture. From the cake mix that provides a soft, fluffy base to the spices and glaze that elevate every bite, these simple pantry staples come together beautifully without fuss.
- Yellow cake mix (or vanilla cake mix): The foundation for a light and tender cake that bakes evenly and keeps moisture beautifully.
- Water: Helps activate the cake mix, ensuring the batter is smooth and properly hydrated.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake for the perfect crumb.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moistness, keeping the cake soft even after baking.
- Brown sugar: Packed full of molasses notes, this sugar adds richness and depth to the cinnamon swirl.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice, giving the cake its warm, cozy aroma and signature flavor.
- Powdered sugar: The base for a sweet glaze that melts into the cake’s poked holes.
- Milk: Used to thin the powdered sugar into a silky glaze with perfect drizzle consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a layer of aromatic sweetness that rounds out the glaze and complements cinnamon.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Mix your yellow cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil in a bowl, beating until the batter is perfectly smooth. This base will be light and fluffy, ready to soak up the cinnamon magic.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. This sweet and spicy mixture is the heart of the Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe—it’s what brings that unmistakable cinnamon roll flavor right to your cake.
Step 3: Swirl the Cinnamon Into the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared dish, smoothing it out evenly. Next, dollop the cinnamon mixture randomly on top of the batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon sugar gently throughout, creating beautiful, marbled ribbons of cinnamon that promise every bite will be full of flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling like your favorite coffee shop as the cake turns golden and the cinnamon swirls intensify. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, signaling perfection.
Step 5: Poke the Cake
Once cooled for about 15 minutes, use the end of a wooden spoon or skewer to poke holes all over the cake’s surface. These holes are the secret to soaking in the delicious glaze that follows, making the cake moist and bursting with flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this glaze generously over the cake, letting it seep into every hole and mingle with the cinnamon swirls underneath.
Step 7: Let It Set and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely to let the glaze set perfectly. This resting time makes slicing easier and the texture divine—soft, sweet, and packed with cinnamon warmth ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of cinnamon or a light sprinkle of chopped pecans on top adds both texture and visual appeal. If you want to go extra, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm cake flavors, amping up the indulgence factor.
Side Dishes
This cake makes a stellar dessert after brunch or dinner, especially alongside fresh fruit or a simple cup of coffee or tea. Think about serving it with a fruit salad featuring berries or apples to complement the cinnamon’s sweetness with a burst of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve slices on pretty plates garnished with a cinnamon stick or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can even turn this cake into parfaits by layering crumbs with cream cheese frosting and fruit, making get-togethers extra special and interactive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays moist and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for those who love having a ready-made treat on hand.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for a freshly baked taste.
Reheating
Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked warmth. Avoid overheating to keep the glaze from melting too much and preserve the cake’s delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While a yellow or vanilla cake mix works best to showcase the cinnamon swirl, you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the cinnamon flavor should still shine through.
Is it necessary to poke holes in the cake?
Yes, poking holes allows the glaze to soak deep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful. Skipping this step means you’ll miss out on that signature poke cake softness and sweet glaze infusion.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
If you substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free version and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free, this recipe can easily be adapted. The result will be just as delicious and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
How long can I keep the cake at room temperature?
To maintain freshness and food safety, keep the cake refrigerated after it has cooled and the glaze has been added. It can safely sit out for up to 2 hours, but refrigeration is best for preserving its moist texture.
Can I add nuts to the cinnamon swirl?
Yes! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture before swirling it into the batter adds a nice crunch and another layer of flavor. It’s a delicious customization if you enjoy a bit of texture in your cake.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe is a delightful twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Its simplicity, comforting cinnamon flavor, and luscious glaze combine to offer a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this cake promises sweet moments and plenty of smiles. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the convenience of a moist, tender yellow cake. Swirled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze that soaks into delicate holes poked throughout the cake, this dessert is perfect for a cozy treat or special occasion.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or vanilla cake mix)
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil. Beat the mixture until smooth and fully blended according to the cake mix instructions.
- Pour Batter: Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Add Cinnamon Dollops: Spoon the cinnamon sugar mixture over the surface of the cake batter in random spots.
- Swirl Cinnamon: Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the cake batter by dragging swirling patterns throughout the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
- Poke the Cake: Using the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, ensuring the holes go deeply into the cake without piercing the bottom.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
- Pour Glaze: Pour the glaze evenly over the cake surface, allowing it to seep into the holes and soak into the cinnamon swirls beneath.
- Serve: Let the cake cool completely to set the glaze. Slice into pieces and enjoy this delightful cinnamon roll inspired poke cake.
Notes
- You can substitute a vanilla cake mix if yellow cake mix is not available.
- For a richer flavor, try using melted butter instead of vegetable oil if desired.
- Ensure you spread the cinnamon sugar mixture unevenly before swirling to get the best marbled effect.
- Do not overbake to keep the cake moist and tender.
- Poking the holes evenly allows the glaze to penetrate throughout the cake for maximum flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving to allow the glaze to properly set and avoid a runny topping.
