Dessert

Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

ByAndria Russo November 30, 2025November 30, 2025

Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the flavors of cinnamon rolls with a moist, tender cake. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your friends and family.

A thick slice of cake is shown on a white plate, sitting on a white marbled surface. The cake has two main layers: the bottom layer is a soft, light tan cake with visible swirls of darker cinnamon-colored filling mixed inside. On top, there is a thick, smooth layer of creamy, pale off-white frosting that spreads evenly across the surface. The texture of the cake looks moist and crumbly, while the frosting appears dense and rich. In the background, there is a cinnamon stick and a small blurred jar with brown contents, adding warmth to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box vanilla (white) cake mix, prepared as directed on the box
5 tablespoons butter
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2½ teaspoons clear vanilla extract
14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
8 tablespoons butter, softened (½ cup)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract
2 teaspoons half and half
2½ cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish with baking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the cake as directed on the box. Note that whether you use whole eggs or just egg whites is up to you. Bake the cake and keep an eye on it—it’s often done a few minutes before the suggested time. Let the cake cool until it is just slightly warm to the touch.
Step 3: Use the handle end of a silicone spoon or a wooden spatula to poke holes evenly spaced about ½ inch apart across the cake.
Step 4: In a heat-safe bowl, combine 5 tablespoons butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk together until smooth. Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute, stir, then heat for another minute and stir again. Continue heating in 30-second increments and stirring until all sugar lumps have dissolved.
Step 5: Carefully pour the warm butter mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
Step 6: Using a stand or handheld mixer on medium speed, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
Step 7: Lower the mixer speed and add vanilla extract, half and half, and powdered sugar gradually—about ½ cup at a time. Increase speed to medium and beat until the frosting is smooth.
Step 8: Spread the frosting evenly over the cake with a silicone spatula. Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container for future use.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use whole eggs in the cake mix as recommended.
Add chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon mixture for added texture.
Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature for best taste.
If you prefer, swap half and half with heavy cream for a creamier frosting.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Leftover frosting can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square piece of cinnamon cake on a white plate. The cake has two visible layers: the bottom layer is light brown with darker swirls of cinnamon and a crumbly texture, showing a mix of soft cake and spiced filling. The top layer is a thick, smooth, creamy white frosting, evenly spread and slightly fluffy with soft peaks. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a cinnamon stick placed near the plate. A glass jar with brown contents is blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a box mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite vanilla cake recipe, but using a box mix keeps this recipe quick and easy without sacrificing flavor.

Why do I need to poke holes in the cake?

The holes allow the cinnamon and sweetened milk mixture to soak into the cake, making it extra moist and infused with flavor, similar to a cinnamon roll.