cinnamon roll poke cake recipe
The Best cinnamon roll poke cake recipe
I also love how this recipe is so versatile. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch with the family, a simple after-school treat, or even a make-ahead dessert for a game night. The cake itself is moist and slightly dense, but the poke holes give it a lightness that feels indulgent without being heavy. Plus, it’s got a little something for everyone—kids love the gooey cinnamon filling, and adults can enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a moment of comfort in the day. And honestly? The health benefits are pretty nice too. It’s got whole wheat flour, which means a little more fiber than traditional cake, and the cinnamon isn’t just for taste—it’s got that little extra something that can help with digestion. It’s not a super healthy dessert, but it’s not a bad one either, and that’s what matters most to me.
Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
A moist, flavorful twist on classic poke cake, infused with cinnamon swirls and a rich tomato-based glaze for a sweet yet savory bite. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. -
2
In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt. Add egg, yeast mixture, and olive oil. Mix until combined. -
3
Knead dough on low for 5 minutes, then let rise in a greased bowl for 1 hour or until doubled. -
4
Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll dough to ⅛-inch thickness on a floured surface. -
5
Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with cinnamon. Roll tightly into a log, then slice into ½-inch rounds. -
6
Mix cinnamon swirl ingredients until smooth. Brush tomato glaze over cake rounds, then pipe swirls on top. -
7
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden. Cool before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
1. What is the difference between a traditional poke cake and a cinnamon roll poke cake?
A traditional poke cake is a simple vanilla sponge cake topped with whipped cream and fruit, while a cinnamon roll poke cake combines the flavors of a cinnamon roll with the moist texture of a poke cake. The cake incorporates cinnamon-sugar swirls and a slightly sweet, spiced filling, giving it a richer taste and a more indulgent appearance.
2. Can I make this cinnamon roll poke cake ahead of time and still enjoy it fresh?
Yes, you can prepare most components of the cinnamon roll poke cake in advance. Assemble the cake layers and frosting, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake the cake as directed, and let it cool completely before adding the glaze. The cake will stay fresh for up to two days if stored properly in an airtight container.
3. What substitutions can I make for the ingredients if I have dietary restrictions?
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix or homemade gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese frosting with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or a coconut cream frosting. Ensure all other ingredients are also suitable for your dietary needs.
4. How do I ensure the cinnamon swirls in the cake are evenly distributed?
To achieve even cinnamon swirls, use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe the cinnamon-sugar mixture in a consistent, diagonal pattern across the cake layers before adding the frosting. You can also use a knife to gently swirl the filling between the layers for a more rustic look.
5. Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls for this recipe instead of making them from scratch?
Absolutely! Using store-bought cinnamon rolls can save time. Cut them into small pieces, mix them with the cake batter, and bake as directed. This method still yields a delicious cinnamon roll poke cake with less effort.
