Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

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Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic poke cake, infusing the rich, warm flavors of cinnamon rolls into a moist, decadent dessert. This cake features the same melt-in-your-mouth qualities as a traditional cinnamon roll, but with a fun and easy-to-make twist. After baking, the cake is “poked” and filled with sweet cinnamon syrup and topped with a luscious icing that mirrors the creamy glaze often seen on cinnamon rolls. The result is a soft, gooey, and cinnamon-sweet dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any occasion that calls for a comforting and indulgent treat.

Perfect for:

• Family gatherings
• Breakfast or brunch
• Holiday celebrations
• Coffee and dessert pairings
• Cinnamon lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Here’s why Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake will quickly become your favorite dessert:

• Cinnamon Flavor in Every Bite: The warm, comforting cinnamon flavor is infused throughout the cake, creating an irresistible dessert that mimics the flavor of fresh cinnamon rolls.
• Moist and Gooey Texture: The cake stays moist and soft, thanks to the poke method, which allows the cinnamon syrup to soak deep into the cake.
• Easy to Make: This cake comes together quickly and doesn’t require much prep work. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert.
• Perfectly Topped: The sweet icing adds the perfect finishing touch, providing a smooth and creamy layer that brings the whole cake together.
• Customizable: You can add extras like nuts, fruit, or even a drizzle of caramel for an added twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouth-watering dessert:

Cake:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (ensure it’s halal-certified)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Cinnamon Syrup:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

• Cake Mix: Using a box cake mix helps make the recipe quick and easy. The yellow cake mix serves as a perfect base that pairs well with the cinnamon and syrup.
• Ground Cinnamon: This essential spice creates the signature cinnamon flavor that makes this cake irresistible.
• Butter: The butter in both the cake and syrup adds richness and helps achieve a soft, tender texture in the cake.
• Heavy Cream: The heavy cream helps create a smooth, luxurious cinnamon syrup that soaks into the cake for added flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cake and icing, rounding out the sweet and spicy notes of cinnamon.

Step-by-Step

Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Follow these simple steps to make your very own Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake:

Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Add the box of yellow cake mix and the ground cinnamon to the wet ingredients. Mix everything together until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
4. Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should have a golden-brown color on top.

Make the Cinnamon Syrup:

5. Prepare the Syrup: While the cake is baking, make the cinnamon syrup. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, stir in the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to bubble gently for 3-4 minutes.
6. Finish the Syrup: After the syrup has simmered and thickened slightly, remove it from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Set the syrup aside to cool slightly.

Poke the Cake and Add the Cinnamon Syrup:

7. Poke the Cake: Once the cake has finished baking, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Be sure to poke deep enough for the syrup to soak through, but not all the way to the bottom.
8. Add the Syrup: Slowly pour the cinnamon syrup over the warm cake, making sure to evenly distribute it into the holes. The syrup will soak into the cake, adding moisture and flavor.

Make the Icing:

9. Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, softened butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract. The icing should be smooth and slightly pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to achieve the desired consistency.

Finish and Serve the Cake:

10. Ice the Cake: Once the cake has absorbed the syrup and is fully cooled, drizzle the icing over the top of the cake. You can spread it evenly with a spatula or leave it as a drizzle for a more rustic look.
11. Cut and Serve: Allow the icing to set slightly before cutting the cake into squares. Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve it warm, alongside fresh fruit, for a delightful start to your day.
• With Coffee or Tea: This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect snack or dessert during the afternoon.
• As a Dessert: Serve it as the centerpiece of a dessert table at family gatherings, birthdays, or holiday celebrations. Everyone will love the combination of cinnamon flavor and sweet icing.
• With Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve a slice of the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
• For Special Occasions: You can also add festive sprinkles or crushed nuts on top to elevate it for a special celebration.

Additional Tips for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Here are some tips to ensure your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overbake the Cake: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. You want it to be moist, not dry, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
• Poke the Cake Deeply: To ensure the syrup soaks into the cake, poke deep enough to create small holes, but avoid poking all the way through to the bottom.
• Let the Cake Cool: Let the cake cool slightly before pouring the syrup over it. This helps prevent the syrup from running off the cake, and it gives the cake time to absorb all the delicious cinnamon flavor.
• Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature, making it an excellent dessert for gatherings or when you’re short on time.
• Customize the Icing: You can switch things up by adding a pinch of ground cinnamon to the icing for an extra layer of cinnamon flavor.

Recipe Variations for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

If you’re looking to add a personal twist to your Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake, try these variations:

1. Maple Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Add a touch of maple syrup to the icing for a warm, autumn-inspired flavor.
2. Nutty Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture and flavor.
3. Caramel Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake before serving for a rich, buttery finish.
4. Apple Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Add a layer of sautéed apples or apple pie filling on top of the cake before poking and adding the syrup.
5. Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Add chocolate chips to the cake batter for a sweet contrast to the cinnamon flavor.
6. Berries and Cream Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries between layers of cake and icing for a fresh, fruity contrast.
7. Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cake batter for a seasonal flavor boost.
8. Cheesecake Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Spread a layer of cream cheese filling over the cake before adding the cinnamon syrup for a rich, cheesecake-inspired twist.
9. Coconut Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the cake for a tropical flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon.
10. Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake with Streusel Topping: Top the cake with a streusel topping before baking for a crunchy texture that adds a delicious contrast to the soft cake.

Freezing and Storage for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in an airtight container. To serve, let it thaw at room temperature and add the icing afterward.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The cake will stay moist and delicious, ready for whenever you crave a sweet bite.

Special Equipment for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

While making Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake doesn’t require many special tools, here are a few that can make the process easier:

• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This size is perfect for creating a large batch of cake that’s just the right thickness.
• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer will help you mix the ingredients quickly and smoothly, especially if you’re making large batches.
• Wooden Spoon or Fork: Use a fork or wooden spoon to poke holes in the cake, allowing the syrup to soak in.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important to ensure your ingredients are balanced.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack will allow air to circulate around the cake and prevent it from becoming soggy.

FAQ Section for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

1. Can I use a different cake mix? Yes, you can use any cake mix you like, but yellow cake mix works best for the cinnamon flavor.
2. Can I make this cake dairy-free? Yes, use a dairy-free butter substitute and dairy-free milk for both the cake and the icing.
3. How do I know when the cake is done? The cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
4. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.
5. Can I use homemade cinnamon syrup? Absolutely! If you have a homemade cinnamon syrup recipe, feel free to use it instead of the one provided in the recipe.

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Conclusion for Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves cinnamon rolls and cake alike. With its rich, moist texture, delightful cinnamon flavor, and sweet, creamy icing, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a dessert after dinner, or taking it to a party, it’s sure to be a hit. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite of this irresistible cinnamon-infused treat!