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Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Few desserts strike the perfect balance between cozy and indulgent like this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake. It’s everything you love about a warm cinnamon roll—sweet brown sugar swirls, creamy frosting, and soft fluffy cake—all brought together in one incredibly simple, crowd-pleasing recipe. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something sweet and homey, this poke cake delivers rich cinnamon flavor in every bite.
This dessert starts with a classic box cake mix, jazzed up with a gooey brown sugar cinnamon filling that’s soaked deep into the cake thanks to the signature “poke” technique. It’s then topped with a velvety cream cheese glaze that melts into all the nooks and crannies. One slice and you’ll see why it’s become a fan-favorite from Layers Of Calm.
Ingredients:
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1 box cake mix (white or vanilla), prepared as directed
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5 tablespoons butter
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½ cup brown sugar
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3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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1 can sweetened condensed milk
For the frosting:
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8 tablespoons butter (softened)
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1 block cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
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4.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
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2 teaspoons half and half (or milk)
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2½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
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Bake the cake: Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
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Poke the cake: Using the end of a wooden spoon or a thick straw, poke holes all over the warm cake, making sure they go at least halfway down.
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Make the cinnamon filling: In a small saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon until combined and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk.
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Pour over cake: Slowly pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the entire cake, letting it sink into the holes. Set the cake aside to cool completely.
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Prepare the frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add in the vanilla and half and half, then slowly mix in the powdered sugar until fluffy and fully combined.
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Frost the cake: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. For a melty texture, frost while slightly warm; for a firmer top, wait until fully cooled.
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Serve and enjoy: Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
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Storage:
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better the next day!
Final Thoughts:
This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a cinnamon lover’s dream—a warm hug in dessert form. With its gooey filling, creamy topping, and fluffy texture, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Simple to make, easy to share, and impossible to forget. From Layers Of Calm to your table, treat yourself to the sweetest slice of comfort.
