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
Scale
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.
