Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients:
- Cooking spray – To grease the pan.
- 1 box white cake mix – Use your preferred brand (plus ingredients required by the box, typically eggs, water, and oil).
Filling Ingredients:
- 1 (14-oz.) can sweetened condensed milk – Adds sweetness and a creamy texture.
- 4 Tbsp. melted butter – For richness.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar – Brings a deep molasses flavor.
- 1 tsp. cinnamon – The star spice for that signature cinnamon roll taste.
- Pinch of kosher salt – To balance sweetness.
Frosting Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – To whip into a light, fluffy texture.
- 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy base.
- 4 Tbsp. butter, softened – Adds smoothness and richness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – For sweetness.
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract – For depth of flavor.
- Pinch of kosher salt – To enhance flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cake
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9″x13″ baking pan with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Mix the Cake Batter: Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Typically, this involves mixing the cake mix with water, eggs, and oil.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased pan and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Making the Cinnamon Filling
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Whipping Up the Frosting
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will make your frosting light and fluffy.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Butter: In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and lump-free.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture and beat until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until combined. Finally, fold in the whipped cream gently until the frosting is creamy and airy.
Step 4: Assembling the Cake
- Poke Holes: Using the bottom of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cooled cake, ensuring they reach the bottom of the pan.
- Add the Filling: Pour the prepared cinnamon filling over the cake. Use a rubber spatula to gently press the filling into the holes, ensuring even distribution.
- Frost the Cake: Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake, covering it entirely.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the frosting to set.
Notes
Serving Ideas and Delicious Variations
- Serving Suggestion: Serve chilled with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a comforting dessert experience.
- Variations: Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture. You can also experiment with different flavors like adding a touch of nutmeg or using chocolate chips in the batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert