Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: Utilizing a boxed cake mix streamlines the baking process, allowing you to create a delectable dessert with minimal effort.
Rich Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar infuses the cake with a warm, comforting taste reminiscent of traditional cinnamon rolls.
Creamy Frosting: A smooth cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced cake.
Versatility: Ideal for breakfast gatherings, brunches, or as a dessert, this cake suits various occasions and can be easily transported for potlucks or parties.

Ingredients

1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
1 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup melted butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions, then pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed.
Create the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Add the melted butter and mix until well combined.
Poke the Cake: Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake, approximately 1 inch apart.
Add the Filling: Pour the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if necessary.
Prepare the Frosting: While the cake absorbs the filling, prepare your preferred frosting. A cream cheese frosting pairs exceptionally well with this cake.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely and the filling has set, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Serve: Slice and serve the cake. For added flair, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top or drizzle with a simple glaze.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12-16 servings, depending on portion size.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon-sugar filling for added texture and flavor.
Glaze Topping: Instead of cream cheese frosting, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cake for a lighter topping.
Spiced Cake: Use a spice cake mix instead of vanilla for a deeper, more robust flavor profile.
Apple Cinnamon: Fold in finely chopped apples into the batter before baking to create an apple-cinnamon variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese frosting.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a type of cake where holes are poked into the baked cake, and a filling or liquid is poured over, allowing it to seep into the holes, creating a moist and flavorful dessert.

Can I use a homemade cake recipe instead of a boxed mix?

Absolutely! You can substitute the boxed mix with your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe.

What type of frosting pairs well with this cake?

Cream cheese frosting is a popular choice due to its tangy sweetness, but a simple vanilla glaze or buttercream frosting also works well.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. In fact, allowing it to sit overnight enhances the flavor as the filling further soaks into the cake.

Is it possible to make this cake without eggs?

Yes, you can use egg substitutes or alternatives like unsweetened applesauce or yogurt to replace eggs in the cake mix.

Can I add raisins or other dried fruits?

Certainly! Adding raisins or dried cranberries can provide additional texture and flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?

If cream cheese is unavailable, a simple buttercream frosting or a powdered sugar glaze can be used as alternatives.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?

Ensure not to over-pour the filling. Pour just enough to seep into the holes without pooling excessively on top.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter in both the filling and frosting, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake offers a delightful twist on traditional desserts, combining the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake. Its moist texture