Name: Honey Bun Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 15.25-ounce box yellow cake mix; 4 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup vegetable or canola oil; 1 cup light brown sugar (packed); 1 heaping tablespoon cinnamon (or to taste); 2 cups confectioners' sugar; ¼ cup milk ((I used whole)); 1 8-ounce container whipped topping (thawed (I used lite; you may not need the entire container))

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Imagine a dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with a soft, moist cake. Enter the Honey Bun Poke Cake, a delightful treat that’s perfect for any gathering or simply to indulge your sweet tooth. This cake not only boasts a tender crumb but also features a luscious glaze that seeps into the cake, making each bite a heavenly experience. Today, I’m excited to share this simple yet scrumptious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.

Reasons to Love Honey Bun Poke Cake

First off, the Honey Bun Poke Cake is incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. The combination of soft yellow cake, a gooey cinnamon swirl, and a creamy topping creates a delightful symphony of textures and flavors. It’s perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or even as a sweet treat for your family. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples. Trust me; once you make this cake, you’ll want to bake it again and again!

Ingredient List

To create this mouthwatering Honey Bun Poke Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

1 15.25-ounce box yellow cake mix
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
½ cup vegetable or canola oil
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 heaping tablespoon cinnamon, or to taste
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
¼ cup milk (I used whole)
1 8-ounce container whipped topping, thawed (I used lite; you may not need the entire container)

Prep & Cook Tools

To make your Honey Bun Poke Cake, gather the following tools:

Mixing bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for mixing the batter and a smaller one for the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending the ingredients smoothly.
9×13-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for baking and serving the poke cake.
Toothpick or skewer: Use this to poke holes in the cake before adding the glaze.
Spatula: A spatula will help you spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.

Mastering Honey Bun Poke Cake: How-To

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to master the art of making Honey Bun Poke Cake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and vegetable oil. Using a whisk, blend until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate small bowl, mix together the packed light brown sugar and cinnamon. This will create the delicious swirl that gives the cake its signature flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Then, pour the remaining cake batter on top, smoothing it out gently with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Step 6: Poke Holes in the Cake

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Using a toothpick or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the cake. This step is crucial as it allows the glaze to seep into the cake, enhancing its moistness.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or sugar as needed.

Step 8: Drizzle the Glaze

Pour the glaze evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This will create that delicious gooey texture that makes the Honey Bun Poke Cake so irresistible.

Step 9: Add the Whipped Topping

Once the glaze has settled, spread the thawed whipped topping over the entire surface of the cake. This adds a light and fluffy texture that complements the rich flavors of the cake.

Step 10: Chill and Serve

Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, cut into squares and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to tweak the recipe or cater to specific dietary preferences, consider the following substitutions:

Eggs: You can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option.
Sour cream: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream.
Vegetable oil: Coconut oil works well as a substitute for vegetable or canola oil.
Whipped topping: For a dairy-free version, use coconut whipped cream or a plant-based whipped topping.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

After multiple trials, I found that allowing the cake to rest overnight in the refrigerator enhances the flavors immensely. The longer it sits, the more the glaze penetrates the cake, making it even more delicious. Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon in the cinnamon-sugar mixture based on your preference; some like it spicier, while others prefer a milder flavor.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Honey Bun Poke Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!

Common Questions

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! This cake actually tastes better when made in advance. Make it a day ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can use chocolate or spice cake mix for a delicious twist on the classic Honey Bun Poke Cake.

What if I don’t have confectioners’ sugar?

If you don’t have confectioners’ sugar on hand, you can blend granulated sugar in a blender until it becomes a fine powder. This homemade confectioners’ sugar works just as well!

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.

Ready to Cook?

With this Honey Bun Poke Cake recipe in hand, you’re fully equipped to create a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The combination of flavors and textures in this cake makes it a true crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in this delectable treat. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make such a delightful dessert. Enjoy your baking adventure!