Elvis Presley Cake is a luscious and indulgent dessert inspired by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s love for rich and flavorful treats. This cake is a delightful fusion of a classic yellow cake, creamy pineapple filling, and a smooth cream cheese frosting, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re a fan of Elvis or simply love decadent desserts, this cake is a must-try for special occasions, family gatherings, or even casual indulgence.
Ingredients Notes
For the Cake:
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 box) – A convenient base that creates a fluffy and light texture.
- Eggs (as per cake mix instructions) – Adds structure and richness.
- Vegetable Oil (as per cake mix instructions) – Ensures moisture and softness.
- Water (as per cake mix instructions) – Combines the ingredients and helps create a smooth batter.
For the Pineapple Filling:
- Crushed Pineapple (1 can, 20 oz, with juice) – Provides the signature fruity sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth of flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream Cheese (1 package, 8 oz, softened) – The key ingredient for a rich and creamy texture.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened) – Helps create a smooth consistency.
- Powdered Sugar (3 cups) – Provides sweetness and structure.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Chopped Pecans (1 cup, optional) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
Kitchen Tools Required
- Mixing Bowls (large and medium)
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
- Spatula for Frosting
- Saucepan (for pineapple filling)
- Cooling Rack
How To Make Elvis Presley Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake batter according to the package instructions by adding the eggs, water, and vegetable oil.
- Mix until smooth and pour the batter into the greased baking dish.
- Bake for the time specified on the cake mix box (typically 25-30 minutes) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly but leave it in the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice) and granulated sugar.
- Stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- While the cake is still warm, poke holes across the surface using a fork or skewer.
- Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Elvis Presley Cake is a delightful Southern dessert that combines rich flavors and a moist, tender texture. Whether you’re a fan of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll or just love indulgent cakes, this recipe is sure to win you over. Here’s why you’ll love it:
1. Incredibly Moist and Flavorful
The combination of a soft yellow cake base, crushed pineapple, and a luscious cream cheese frosting makes this cake irresistibly moist. The pineapple-infused syrup seeps into the cake, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
2. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
This recipe doesn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. A simple yellow cake mix serves as the base, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
3. A Nostalgic Southern Treat
This cake is a tribute to Elvis Presley’s favorite flavors—rich, sweet, and comforting. It’s a classic Southern dessert that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
Elvis Presley Cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its beautiful presentation and delicious taste make it a crowd-pleaser every time.
5. Delightful Texture Combination
The contrast between the soft cake, juicy pineapple, crunchy pecans, and creamy frosting makes every bite an explosion of texture and taste.
Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Elvis Presley Cake is a must-try!
Storage Options
Short-Term Storage
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Keep the cake covered with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing Option
- For longer storage, slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, let the slices sit at room temperature for about an hour or refrigerate overnight.
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can bake the cake base a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature.
- The pineapple filling can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated.
- Assemble and frost the cake a few hours before serving for the freshest taste.
Variations and Substitutions
Flavor Enhancements
- Coconut Addition: Mix shredded coconut into the pineapple filling for a tropical twist.
- Banana Infusion: Add mashed banana to the cake batter for extra richness, honoring Elvis’s love for banana desserts.
Frosting Alternatives
- Whipped Cream Frosting: For a lighter version, substitute the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the top for an added layer of flavor.
Nut-Free Option
- Omit pecans for a nut-free cake without losing its deliciousness.
- Add toasted coconut flakes for a similar texture.
Conclusion
Elvis Presley Cake is a dessert fit for a king—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With its moist yellow cake, sweet pineapple topping, and decadent cream cheese frosting, this cake offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a nostalgic treat, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy this Southern classic and let your taste buds dance to the flavors of rock ‘n’ roll!