Imagine a soft, buttery vanilla cake infused with creamy vanilla pudding, generously swirled with cinnamon-sugar, and crowned with a silky glaze that melts on your tongue. This is not just a dessert—it’s a mood. The Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is the ultimate hybrid of a classic breakfast pastry and a fuss-free homemade cake. Every bite is indulgent without being heavy, nostalgic without feeling outdated.
What makes it truly special? It’s foolproof, fast, and doesn’t demand any baking degrees. You can make it with simple pantry staples, no fancy equipment required. Whether you’re baking for a birthday brunch, holiday potluck, or simply a cozy Tuesday night, this cake delivers every time.
Let’s dive into the recipe, but not before we explore everything you need to know—from ingredients and substitutions to prep tips, storage, and variations that will blow your mind.
🍰 2. What Is a Poke Cake?
A poke cake is a baked cake with holes poked into it—literally. These holes are then filled with a liquid or filling (like pudding, syrup, or condensed milk) to infuse flavor and moisture throughout the entire cake. Think of it as a cake that soaks in flavor from the inside out.
The trend began in the 1970s with Jell-O poke cakes but has since evolved into countless flavor combinations—and this cinnamon roll poke cake is one of the most beloved.
💖 3. Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
Still wondering if it’s worth the effort? Here’s what sets this cake apart:
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Made with a box cake mix and pantry ingredients.
- Rich Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl: Delivers the warm hug of a cinnamon roll.
- Creamy Pudding Layer: Keeps the cake moist and irresistible.
- Glaze That Ties It All Together: Classic cinnamon roll vibes.
- Flexible for Dietary Needs: Can be adjusted for dairy-free or low-sugar versions.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Great for holidays, breakfast-for-dinner nights, or lazy weekends.
🛒 4. Ingredients and Their Roles
Here’s what you’ll need to create the magic:
Cake Base
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
Use any trusted brand. Yellow cake mix also works well for a richer flavor. - Ingredients listed on the cake mix box
Usually includes eggs, oil, and water.
Pudding Filling
- 2 cups cold milk
Whole milk is best, but 2% or non-dairy milk like almond or oat also work. - 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
DO NOT use cook-and-serve. Instant sets up quickly and works best for poke cakes.
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Adds molasses-like richness, mimicking cinnamon roll filling. - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
The star of the show. Use Ceylon for a more mellow flavor or Cassia for bold spice.
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Creates the sweet finish on top. - 2 tablespoons milk
Adjust to your desired consistency. - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Brings depth to the glaze.
👩🍳 5. Easy Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Prepare and bake the cake according to the instructions on the box in a 9×13 inch pan. Let it cool for about 10 minutes once out of the oven—but it should still be warm when you proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Poke the Holes
Use the handle of a wooden spoon (or a similar utensil) to poke holes all over the cake, spaced about 1 inch apart. Don’t worry about symmetry—just poke generously.
Step 3: Prepare the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until slightly thickened. Pour it evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
Step 4: Cinnamon-Sugar Layer
Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture over the pudding layer before it sets completely. The warmth from the cake will help melt it slightly into the pudding.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In another bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the top in a swirl or zigzag pattern.
Step 6: Chill or Serve
Let the cake chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving—or warm it slightly in the microwave for 15 seconds for that ooey-gooey cinnamon roll vibe.
🔍 6. Tips for Making the Perfect Poke Cake
- Don’t skimp on the poke holes. The more holes, the more flavor gets soaked in.
- Use cold milk for pudding. This ensures the pudding sets properly.
- Layer strategically. Pour the pudding while the cake is still warm and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar before it firms up.
- Chill for deeper flavor. Letting it rest in the fridge enhances the soak and allows flavors to meld.
🕒 7. Make-Ahead Instructions
This cake is a make-ahead superstar.
- You can prepare the entire cake up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
- For best appearance, wait to drizzle the glaze until just before serving.
- If preparing for a party, cut it into squares, place in cupcake liners, and refrigerate overnight.
❄️ 8. Storage and Freezing Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze before serving.
🧁 9. Custom Variations to Try
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap milk glaze for a tangy cream cheese version.
- Chocolate Cinnamon Poke Cake: Use chocolate pudding instead and add mini chocolate chips.
- Pumpkin Spice Version: Add 1/2 cup canned pumpkin to the batter and use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon.
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake: Add thinly sliced apples on top before adding the glaze.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a certified gluten-free cake mix and ensure pudding is gluten-free.
❓ 10. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?
A: Absolutely! A homemade vanilla or butter cake works beautifully.
Q: Can I skip the pudding?
A: Pudding is what makes poke cake moist and flavorful. You can try condensed milk or a cream cheese filling instead.
Q: Is it okay to serve warm?
A: Yes! Just microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes—use plant-based milk and a dairy-free pudding mix. For glaze, substitute with almond or oat milk.
🖨️ 11. Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Printable Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix + ingredients on box
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Bake cake as per box in 9×13 pan. Cool 10 minutes.
- Poke holes across the cake using a wooden spoon handle.
- Mix pudding and milk; pour over the cake.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle on top.
- Whisk glaze ingredients; drizzle over cake.
- Chill for 1 hour or serve warm. Enjoy!
🧾 12. Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Sugar | 28g |
| Sodium | 370mg |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbs | 48g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
💬 13. Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a mascot, this Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake would win the title. It’s the best of both worlds—a fluffy cake and a sticky-sweet cinnamon roll—married into one effortless dessert. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch or just want to surprise your loved ones, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Keep it simple or make it fancy. Either way, it’s one of those sweet easy recipes everyone will crave again and again.
