Elvis Presley Cake Recipe: Ever heard of a cake that’s sweet enough to rock your taste buds and rich enough to make The King proud? That’s the Elvis Presley Cake for you. This old-school dessert has been melting hearts and satisfying cravings for decades. And no, you don’t have to be a die-hard Elvis fan to fall in love with this cake. It’s famously indulgent, packed with flavors like crushed pineapple, vanilla cake, and a creamy frosting that just hits the spot.
So why is it named after Elvis? Legend has it, this was one of his favorite desserts. True or not, it definitely suits his over-the-top, larger-than-life persona. The cake is sweet, rich, nostalgic, and once you’ve had a bite—you’ll never forget it. Whether you’re throwing a 1950s-themed party, looking for something different for a potluck, or just want a cake that sings, this recipe will take you there.
Ready to bake like a rock star? Let’s roll.
What is Elvis Presley Cake?
Elvis Presley Cake isn’t your everyday vanilla sheet cake. Nope, this one stands out. It starts with a soft, moist yellow cake (often from a boxed mix, but you can go homemade if you’re fancy). The magic, however, lies in the layers that follow.
After the cake is baked, it’s poked with holes and soaked with a thick, sugary pineapple mixture—giving it a juicy, almost tropical kick. As if that wasn’t enough, the cake is then slathered with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pineapple topping.
Some versions even throw in pecans, coconut, or whipped topping for extra flair. And yes, it’s every bit as decadent as it sounds.
The cake is a fan favorite at Southern family gatherings, potlucks, and church picnics. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and oh-so-delicious. Think of it as banana pudding’s flamboyant cousin who shows up in sequins and steals the show.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s be real: there are tons of cake recipes out there. But this one? It’s a whole experience. Here’s why this Elvis Presley Cake will rock your world:
- Super Moist Texture: Thanks to that crushed pineapple topping, every bite is tender and juicy.
- Creamy, Tangy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting isn’t just sweet; it’s got a little zip that makes each bite addictively good.
- Quick and Easy: No need to bake a cake from scratch unless you want to. A simple yellow cake mix does the trick beautifully.
- Perfect for Parties: This cake makes a statement. It’s got the look and flavor to wow any crowd.
- Versatile: You can dress it up with nuts, shredded coconut, or even banana slices if you want to go full Elvis.
So, whether you’re baking for a birthday, a potluck, or just because your sweet tooth said so—this recipe has your back.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece to life:
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box—usually eggs, oil, and water)
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
This combination of simple ingredients creates an explosion of flavor that hits every note—from sweet and tart to creamy and nutty.
Tools & Equipment Required
Don’t worry—you won’t need a gourmet kitchen setup. Just a few basics:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Saucepan (for pineapple topping)
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula or butter knife (for frosting)
- Toothpick or skewer (for poking holes)
Having these tools ready ahead of time makes the whole baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Before You Start: Tips for Best Results
Want a cake that comes out perfect every time? Follow these tips before you preheat that oven:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temp. This helps everything mix smoothly.
- Don’t Overmix the Cake Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Use the Pineapple Juice: Don’t drain that can of crushed pineapple. The juice adds major flavor and moisture.
- Chill the Frosting Slightly: Pop your cream cheese frosting in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before spreading—it’ll be easier to handle.
- Let the Cake Cool Completely Before Frosting: Or you’ll end up with a melty mess instead of a clean finish.
These small steps make a huge difference between an okay cake and one that’ll have your guests begging for the recipe.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Elvis Presley Cake
Let’s break it down so you can rock this cake from start to finish.
Step 1: Making the Cake Base
Start by preparing a simple yellow cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake until golden and fully set. The yellow cake acts as the sweet, buttery foundation of this classic Southern dessert. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly—just enough to handle the topping without it melting too quickly.
Step 2: Preparing the Pineapple Topping
While the cake is cooling, heat crushed pineapple (with its juice) and sugar in a saucepan. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes syrupy. This warm pineapple topping is what gives the Elvis Presley Cake its famous fruity flavor. Once ready, poke holes all over the warm cake using a fork and pour the pineapple mixture on top, allowing it to soak in.
Step 3: Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla until smooth and fluffy. The frosting should be creamy and spreadable, with a hint of tanginess.
Step 4: Assembling the Cake
Once the pineapple layer has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Chill before serving for best texture and flavor. Enjoy!
Baking Time & Temperature Tips
Getting the perfect bake is all about precision, even with an easy recipe like this. Follow these baking guidelines to make sure your Elvis Presley Cake turns out golden and moist every single time:
- Preheat Your Oven: Always start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly heated oven ensures the cake rises evenly from the start.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking the cake around the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (but no raw batter), your cake is ready.
- Avoid Opening the Oven Door Too Often: This can cause the cake to sink in the middle. Wait until you’re close to the suggested baking time before peeking.
- Use the Middle Rack: Place your baking pan on the center oven rack for even heat distribution. The bottom rack could burn the bottom, and the top rack may dry it out.
If your oven runs hot (or cold), consider using an oven thermometer to be sure you’re baking at the correct temperature. Trust me, the last thing you want is an overbaked cake when you’re making one fit for The King.
Cooling and Frosting the Cake
Let’s talk about patience—because letting your cake cool properly is just as important as baking it. If you rush the process, your cream cheese frosting will melt, slip, and look like a hot mess (literally).
How to Cool the Cake Properly:
- Cool in the Pan: Leave the cake in the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This will take about 45 minutes to an hour.
- Don’t Frost While Warm: If the cake is even slightly warm, your frosting will melt and slide. Make sure it’s cool to the touch.
Frosting Tips:
- Chill the Frosting for 10-15 Minutes: This makes it easier to spread, especially if you’re using a hand mixer and it came out a bit soft.
- Use an Offset Spatula: This helps spread the frosting evenly without tearing the cake surface.
- Decorate to Impress: After frosting, feel free to sprinkle chopped pecans, coconut flakes, or even banana slices for that Elvis-approved vibe.
And there you have it—a frosted masterpiece ready to steal the show at any dinner table or event.
Storage Instructions
Don’t worry if you can’t finish the cake in one sitting (though you might be tempted to). Here’s how to store your Elvis Presley Cake to keep it fresh and tasty:
In the Fridge:
- Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- For best flavor, let slices come to room temperature before serving.
In the Freezer:
- To freeze, cut the cake into individual slices and wrap each in plastic wrap.
- Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag.
- Store for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave slices in the fridge overnight or on the counter for 1-2 hours.
Whether you’re saving leftovers or prepping in advance, proper storage will keep your cake moist and delicious.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re making this cake for a party or event, prepping ahead can save you stress on the big day. Here’s how to do it:
- Make the Cake Base a Day Early: Bake the yellow cake and add the pineapple topping. Cover and store it in the fridge overnight.
- Frost the Next Day: Make and add the cream cheese frosting the next morning or just before serving. This keeps the frosting fresh and prevents it from absorbing any fridge odors.
- Pre-Chop Toppings: If you’re adding pecans, bananas, or coconut flakes, have them prepped and ready to go.
Making it ahead actually enhances the flavors—the pineapple soaks into the cake more, giving you that ultra-moist bite Elvis himself would have adored.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common mistakes to dodge:
- Overbaking: This cake should be moist, not dry. Keep an eye on the oven and check for doneness early.
- Not Draining Extra Pineapple Liquid: You want the juice, but too much can make the cake soggy. Stick to one can and don’t overdo it.
- Frosting While Warm: This is a major no-no. Always let your cake cool completely first.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: It won’t blend smoothly. Always bring it to room temperature for best results.
- Skipping the Holes: Forgetting to poke holes means the pineapple mixture won’t soak in. Don’t skip this part!
Avoid these pitfalls and your Elvis Presley Cake will be nothing short of a showstopper.
Variations of Elvis Presley Cake
Looking to put your own spin on this classic? Here are some variations to try:
Chocolate Elvis Cake
- Swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate and keep the pineapple topping. The result? A chocolate-pineapple combo that’s surprisingly delicious.
Banana Elvis Cake
- Add 1-2 mashed ripe bananas into the cake batter for a nod to Elvis’s favorite flavor combo—banana and peanut butter.
Cupcake Version
- Turn the cake into 24 cupcakes. Just adjust the baking time to around 18-20 minutes.
- Inject the pineapple topping into the center before frosting for a moist surprise.
Tropical Vibe
- Add shredded coconut to the topping or into the frosting.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries for a colorful, tropical flair.
The possibilities are endless—and they’re all fit for a King.
Serving Suggestions
How you serve the Elvis Presley Cake can elevate the entire experience. Here are a few delicious ideas:
- Pair with Coffee: The rich frosting and pineapple topping are amazing with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
- Go Southern Style: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a true Southern dessert experience.
- Perfect Potluck Star: Cut into squares and serve on a decorative tray—it always gets rave reviews at parties.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh strawberries, bananas, or even kiwi for a colorful, fruity topping.
Whether casual or fancy, this cake brings the party wherever it goes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420-450 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Sugar | 40g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Note: These values vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQs about Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Technically yes, but canned pineapple with juice gives the best consistency and sweetness. Fresh might not be sweet enough and won’t provide the same syrupy soak.
2. Is it okay to use homemade yellow cake?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade yellow cake recipe, go for it. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure the other ingredients (like frosting and pineapple) are certified gluten-free.
4. Do I need to refrigerate the cake after frosting?
Yes. Because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to store the cake in the fridge, especially in warmer climates.
5. What’s the best way to transport this cake to a party?
Use a sturdy baking dish with a lid or wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Keep it chilled until it’s time to serve for best texture and safety.
Conclusion
There you have it—a dessert worthy of royalty. The Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a nostalgic journey wrapped in flavor. With its rich pineapple topping, velvety cream cheese frosting, and moist yellow cake base, it’s no wonder this cake continues to rock kitchens across the country.
Whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or just someone with a sweet tooth, this cake is guaranteed to bring a little joy—and maybe a hip shake or two—to your day. So go ahead, whip it up, and let your taste buds sing, “Thank you, thank you very much.”
