Why Make This Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. This cake is soft, moist, and bursting with sweet cinnamon flavor. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home. The combination of condensed milk and cream cheese frosting makes it extra delicious, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 cup of water
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup of cream cheese frosting
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup of chopped pecans (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and cinnamon. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, poke holes all over the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes, then spread the cream cheese frosting on top.
- Drizzle with vanilla extract and sprinkle with powdered sugar and chopped pecans if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is best served chilled. Cut it into squares and enjoy it as a dessert or a sweet snack. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or milk. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
How to Store Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions of it for later enjoyment. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding the sweetened condensed milk; this will help it soak in better.
- Experiment with different toppings like whipped cream or a caramel drizzle for a new flavor.
- For an extra cinnamon kick, mix cinnamon into the cream cheese frosting.
Variation
You can use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a chocolatey twist. Adding a layer of chocolate sauce can also make it extra rich and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Is it possible to use a different frosting?
Certainly! You can use vanilla frosting, chocolate frosting, or even a homemade cream cheese icing.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can use a substitute for eggs such as applesauce or a commercial egg replacer if you want to make it egg-free.

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch cake pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and cinnamon. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, poke holes all over the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes, then spread the cream cheese frosting on top.
- Drizzle with vanilla extract and sprinkle with powdered sugar and chopped pecans if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.