If you’re in the mood for a dessert that brings a wave of nostalgia coupled with sweet, tropical, and creamy flavors, you have to try this Elvis Presley Cake Recipe. Bursting with moist pineapple-infused layers and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is a delightful tribute to the King’s favorite tastes. It delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich elements that make every bite utterly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving something special at home, this recipe embodies comfort, indulgence, and a little Southern charm all in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is a breeze because it calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that work brilliantly together. Each one helps build that signature moist texture, tropical tang, or creamy sweetness that this dessert is loved for.
- Yellow cake mix: Provides a soft, fluffy base that’s easy to bake and pairs perfectly with pineapple.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Standard cake mix add-ins that keep the cake moist and tender.
- Crushed pineapple with juice: Adds natural sweetness and juicy bursts, soaking into the cake for incredible flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the tropical tang of the pineapple by adding extra sweetness.
- Cream cheese (softened): Creates a rich, tangy frosting that complements the cake beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Makes the frosting creamy and smooth without overpowering other flavors.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that irresistible silky texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- Chopped pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake Base
Begin by preparing the yellow cake mix according to the instructions on the box, usually requiring eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until golden and cooked through. This cake serves as the foundation so getting a soft, even bake is key for soaking up all those tropical flavors.
Step 2: Infuse with Pineapple Goodness
When the cake is still warm from the oven, take a skewer or fork and poke holes all over the top. This little trick lets the pineapple mixture seep deep into the cake instead of just sitting on the surface, ensuring extra moistness and flavor with every bite.
Step 3: Prepare Pineapple Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine a full can of crushed pineapple, juice included, with granulated sugar. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it boils. Reduce the heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly. Pour the hot pineapple syrup evenly over the warm cake so it penetrates through those holes you poked earlier.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools completely, whip up the luscious frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until it’s fluffy and well combined. This frosting brings that perfect creamy tang to balance the sweetness and fruitiness of the pineapple-soaked cake.
Step 5: Frost and Garnish
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. If you like a bit of texture contrast, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top. These nuts add a lovely crunch that works beautifully with the softness of the cake and the silkiness of the frosting.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a classic touch, stick with the chopped pecans sprinkled on the frosting. If you want to elevate the presentation or flavor, toasted coconut flakes are a fantastic addition, adding a subtle crunch and tropical flair that complements the pineapple perfectly. A few fresh pineapple chunks or a sprig of mint can brighten the look and add extra freshness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee, sweet tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Light fruit salads or whipped cream are great companions, too — they keep the dessert experience fresh and balanced without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cake in individual clear glass cups layered with extra pineapple on bottom and more frosting on top for a fun twist. Alternatively, cut the cake into bars for easy grab-and-go treats during parties. Wrapping each piece in parchment paper tied with a ribbon makes a charming homemade gift your friends will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Elvis Presley Cake Recipe stays moist and flavorful when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying over several days or serving to guests whenever the mood strikes.
Freezing
If you want to save this delicious cake for later, slice it into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze the cake pieces for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm the cake slices gently in the microwave on low power for 15-20 seconds or until just warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, or the frosting might melt and the cake could become dry. Warming reveals even more of the luscious pineapple aroma and makes the cake taste freshly baked.
FAQs
What makes the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe special?
This cake is special because it combines simple ingredients like yellow cake and pineapple with a rich cream cheese frosting, inspired by Elvis Presley’s favorite flavors. The pineapple-soaked cake is exceptionally moist and flavorful, making it a standout dessert.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
While fresh pineapple can be used, canned crushed pineapple with juice works best as it provides consistent sweetness and enough liquid to soak into the cake, keeping it moist. If you use fresh pineapple, you might need to adjust the sugar and juice quantities.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat or gelatin. It’s a great dessert option if you’re looking for a sweet treat without animal-derived ingredients.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix of your choice. Ensure the cake mix you select is suitable for baking and follow the same preparation steps for equally delicious results.
How long does the cake need to chill before serving?
For the best flavor and texture, chill the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even overnight. This resting time lets the pineapple infusion deepen and the frosting set perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably joyful about baking and sharing the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe with friends and family. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a sweet slice of history and comfort wrapped in tropical flavors and creamy frosting. Give it a try—you might just find yourself humming a tune from Graceland as you savor every bite.
Print
Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus cooling time
- Yield: 12–15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elvis Presley Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring a classic yellow cake soaked with a sweet pineapple glaze and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. This nostalgic Southern recipe combines the tropical tang of crushed pineapple with rich cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar frosting, optionally finished with crunchy chopped pecans. Ideal for gatherings, this cake improves in flavor and texture after chilling overnight.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box – usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Frosting
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake Cake: Preheat your oven according to the yellow cake mix package instructions. Prepare the cake batter as directed using the cake mix and required ingredients, and pour it into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake as per the package directions until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Soak Cake with Pineapple Mixture: While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke holes evenly all over the top of the cake. In a small saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple along with its juice and the granulated sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. Pour the hot pineapple syrup evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak deeply into the holes. Let the cake cool completely to set.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Frost and Garnish Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake to cover its entire surface. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added texture and flavor. For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to firm up.
Notes
- This cake is extra moist and its flavors improve after sitting overnight in the fridge.
- For added texture and tropical flair, toasted coconut can be sprinkled on top.
