Allen, a second half replacement in the tense victory over Newport Gwent Dragons, starts his first league game of the campaign after recovering from injury.
Head Coach Danny Wilson makes just three changes to his starting line-up with Dan Fish coming in at full back, as Rhys Patchell moves to fly half in a positional change.
The final change to the side is a recall for New Zealander Jarrad Hoeata who comes into the second row to play alongside lock James Down.
Sam Warburton, Gareth Anscombe and Ellis Jenkins all miss the game through injury.
“I’ve been pleased with the way we have played in the last few weeks and we are aiming to start 2016 with a positive performance and result,” said Wilson.
“We have been consistent and there is a belief in the squad that we can win these games.
“When you win tight games late on - Connacht and Montpellier at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park and Dragons away – it gives you that confidence that even when you are down you can win games.
“The boys are working hard and doing everything I’m asking of them. We are making the right strides and looking to continue that into the New Year.”
Tickets remain on sale NOW for the big New Year's Day derby with Scarlets at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park. Call the Ticket Office on 02920 302030 or click HERE to buy online and join a bumper crowd to open 2016.
Cardiff Blues: 15 Dan Fish, 14 Alex Cuthbert, 13 Cory Allen, 12 Rey Lee-Lo, 11 Tom James, 10 Rhys Patchell, 9 Lloyd Williams; 1 Gethin Jenkins (c), 2 Kristian Dacey, 3 Taufa’ao Filise, 4 Jarrad Hoeata, 5 James Down, 6 Josh Turnbull, 7 Josh Navidi, 8 Manoa Vosawai
Replacements: 16 Ethan Lewis, 17 Sam Hobbs, 18 Dillon Lewis, 19 Lou Reed, 20 Macauley Cook, 21 Tavis Knoyle, 22 Jarrod Evans, 23 Garyn Smith