Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

By Tyla | Last modified on Feb 9, 2026

Featured in: Desserts

Imagine biting into a soft, moist cake that captures the warm, spicy sweetness of cinnamon rolls but in a wonderfully easy poke cake form. This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake blends the best of both worlds with a luscious cinnamon-sugar butter drizzle and a creamy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth.

Whether it’s a cozy brunch, a festive dessert, or a comforting treat anytime, this cake delivers indulgence with surprising simplicity. The poke method infuses every bite with rich flavors and velvety texture that will delight cinnamon lovers and cake enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines comforting cinnamon roll flavors with a moist vanilla cake for incredible taste.
Easy assembly using a boxed cake mix, making it ideal for beginner and busy bakers.
The poke technique allows the sweetened condensed milk and cinnamon butter to seep deep for extra moistness and flavor.
The creamy cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, tangy finish that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Ingredients

Vanilla cake mix: A classic boxed mix serves as the convenient and fluffy cake base for this dessert.
Brown sugar: Provides rich caramel notes that complement the cinnamon’s warmth perfectly in the buttery drizzle.
Cinnamon: The star spice, delivering signature warmth and fragrance to make every bite cozy.
Melted butter: Enhances moisture and creates a luscious cinnamon-sugar butter drizzle that seeps into the cake.
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness and moistness, soaking into the cake holes for decadence.
Cream cheese: Softened for a smooth, tangy frosting that balances the cake’s richness.
Unsalted butter: Provides a creamy base to the frosting, ensuring a silky texture and subtle flavor.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to just the right creamy consistency.
Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth and enhances all flavor components in the frosting.
Milk: Thins the frosting slightly to spread smoothly over the cake.

Instructions

Prepare and bake the vanilla cake: Follow the package instructions to prepare the vanilla cake batter, then bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Baking the cake until just done ensures a soft and fluffy texture perfect for soaking in flavors.
Mix cinnamon sugar butter drizzle: Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl, stirring to create a thick, aromatic drizzle. This mixture will add rich sweetness and spice infusing into the cake.
Poke holes throughout the baked cake: Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, use the back of a spoon or a straw to poke holes evenly across the surface. These holes allow the sweetened condensed milk and drizzle to penetrate deeply, ensuring moistness in every bite.
Pour condensed milk and drizzle cinnamon-sugar butter: Slowly pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire cake, letting it seep into the holes. Then drizzle the cinnamon sugar butter mixture on top, allowing fragrant swirls to soak in and enrich the cake’s flavor.
Prepare the cream cheese frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating well to create a luscious frosting with the perfect spreadable texture.
Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake: Once the cake is fully cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly with a spatula. This adds a tangy contrast to the sweet and spicy cake base, completing the decadent treat.
Chill before serving: Refrigerate the frosted cake for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the frosting to set slightly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

You Must Know

Cool the cake completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the icing.
Use a straw or a wooden spoon handle to gently poke holes without breaking the cake apart.
For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cream cheese frosting before spreading.
Store the cake covered in the fridge; it stays moist and flavorful for up to 3 days.

Storage Tips

Keep this cake refrigerated in an airtight container for optimal freshness and moisture retention. It will last up to 3 days without compromising flavor or texture, perfect for making ahead of events or gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside a cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa for a comforting pairing. Garnish with extra cinnamon or chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

Professional Tips

Letting the cake slightly cool before poking ensures it holds its shape but still absorbs the flavors effectively.
Beat the cream cheese and butter long enough to avoid lumps in your frosting, creating a velvety finish.
Adjust cinnamon levels to preference for a milder or more intense spiced flavor.
Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing and better texture.

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch instead of a boxed mix?: Yes, a homemade vanilla cake works beautifully; just ensure it is dense enough to hold the poke technique without crumbling.
Will this cake freeze well?: Freezing is possible but not recommended due to the cream cheese frosting and moist texture, which may change consistency upon thawing.
How do I make the cake less sweet?: Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the drizzle or use less powdered sugar in the frosting to balance sweetness to your liking.
Can I substitute cream cheese in the frosting?: You could use mascarpone for a richer taste or Greek yogurt for a tangier but thinner frosting, though texture may differ.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?: Absolutely! Its attractive cinnamon swirls and rich flavors make it great for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.
Can I add fruit to this cake?: While not traditional, topping with fresh berries or a fruit compote can add a fresh contrast if desired.
What pan size is best for this cake?: Use a 9×13-inch pan as specified for the ideal thickness and baking time to ensure even cooking and texture.