Ingredients

1 box vanilla (white) cake mix (prepare 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 according to the box instructions. You can use either whole eggs or egg whites as you prefer. Bake until just done, checking a few minutes before the suggested time. Allow the cake to cool until slightly warm.

Step 3: Using the handle end of a silicone spoon or wooden spatula, poke holes evenly across the cake about ½ inch apart.

Step 4: In a heat-safe bowl, combine 5 tablespoons butter, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, 2½ teaspoons vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk well to combine.

Step 5: Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute, then stir. Repeat heating for another minute and stir again. Continue heating in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until all sugar lumps are dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Step 6: Carefully pour the warm butter and sugar mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.

Step 7: Using a stand or handheld mixer, cream together the softened 8 tablespoons butter and cream cheese on medium to medium-high speed. Scrape down the bowl sides as needed.

Step 8: Lower the mixer speed to low. Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, half and half, and powdered sugar in ½ cup increments. Increase speed to medium and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Spread the frosting evenly over the cake with a silicone spatula. Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the frosting before serving.

If you prefer a richer cake, substitute half the cake mix water with milk or use butter instead of oil if the box recipe calls for it.

Add a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture.

Ensure the cake is only slightly warm before poking holes to prevent cracking.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Vanilla or white cake mix works best to highlight the cinnamon roll flavors, but you can experiment with yellow cake for a slightly richer taste. Avoid chocolate or strongly flavored mixes as they may overpower the cinnamon.

What can I substitute for half and half in the frosting?

You can use whole milk or heavy cream as a substitute for half and half. Heavy cream will make the frosting richer, while whole milk keeps it lighter but still creamy.