Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Cake
01 -
1 box white cake mix, prepared according to package instructions
→ Filling
02 -
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 -
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
04 -
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
05 -
2 1/2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract
06 -
14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
→ Frosting
07 -
8 ounce bar cream cheese, softened
08 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 -
2 teaspoons clear vanilla flavoring
10 -
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
11 -
2 teaspoons half and half
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick baking spray.
02 -
Mix and bake the white cake according to the package directions. Allow the baked cake to cool until just slightly warm to the touch.
03 -
With the end of a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, poke holes over the surface of the warm cake, spacing holes approximately 1/2 inch apart.
04 -
In a heat-safe bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until fully blended. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then microwave for another minute. Stir to dissolve all sugar clumps, continuing to heat in 30 second increments if needed until mixture is smooth.
05 -
Evenly ladle the warm cinnamon mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
06 -
Using a stand or handheld mixer, cream together softened butter and cream cheese on medium to medium-high speed until smooth. Scrape down the bowl for even mixing.
07 -
Reduce mixer speed to low, then add clear vanilla flavoring, half and half, and powdered sugar gradually, mixing in 1/2 cup increments. Increase mixer speed to medium and beat until frosting is smooth and slightly fluffy.
08 -
Spread the prepared frosting evenly over the cake with a silicone spatula or offset knife. Serve immediately or chill before serving for a firmer texture.
# Notes:
01 -
Frosting is easiest to spread when cake is completely cooled but can be applied to a slightly warm cake if desired.
02 -
For the best texture, poke holes in the cake while it is still just warm.