If you’re craving a dessert that’s as iconic as its namesake, look no further than Elvis Presley Cake. Inspired by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s love for decadent treats, this cake is a symphony of flavors: moist yellow cake, sweet pineapple topping, and creamy frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is guaranteed to leave your taste buds singing.
Why You’ll Love Elvis Presley Cake
Elvis Presley Cake isn’t just another dessert—it’s a celebration of comfort food and indulgence. Here’s why it’s destined to become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, anyone can master this recipe.
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of tangy pineapple, moist cake, and rich cream cheese frosting is unbeatable.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just treating yourself to something special.
- A Tribute to History: Paying homage to Elvis’s legendary taste makes this cake even more meaningful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your Elvis Presley Cake. Each layer adds its own unique touch to this unforgettable dessert.
For the Cake Base
Ingredient | Quantity |
Yellow cake mix | 1 box |
Eggs, oil, and water | As listed on the box |
For the Pineapple Topping
Ingredient | Quantity |
Crushed pineapple (in juice) | 1 (20-ounce) can |
Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredient | Quantity |
Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz (1 block) |
Salted butter (softened) | ½ cup (1 stick) |
Powdered sugar | 3 cups |
Optional: Chopped pecans | ½ cup |
Optional Garnish
- Chopped pecans for added crunch
- Powdered sugar for a decorative finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Elvis Presley Cake, layer by layer.
1. Prepare the Cake Base
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (or follow the instructions on your cake mix package). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. This usually involves adding eggs, oil, and water.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Make the Pineapple Topping
Combine the Ingredients
- While the cake is baking, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice) and sugar in a medium saucepan.
Cook the Mixture
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Set Aside
- Remove the pineapple topping from the heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Poke and Pour
Poke the Cake
- Once the cake is finished baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes. While it’s still warm, use a fork to poke holes all over the top.
Pour the Pineapple Topping
- Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
Cool Completely
- Allow the cake to cool completely before moving on to the frosting.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Add the Powdered Sugar
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Optional: Add Pecans
- For added texture and flavor, stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Frost the Cake
Spread the Frosting
- Once the cake has completely cooled, drop dollops of frosting onto the surface and spread evenly with an offset spatula.
Chill the Cake
- Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Slice and Serve
- Slice the chilled cake into squares and serve immediately.
Optional Garnish
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar or add extra chopped pecans for a decorative finish.
Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients
- Opt for fresh, high-quality cream cheese and butter for the best flavor in your frosting.
2. Don’t Skip the Poking Step
- Poking holes in the cake allows the pineapple topping to soak in, making every bite moist and flavorful.
3. Make It Your Own
- Add a personal touch by incorporating shredded coconut or swapping pecans for walnuts.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | ~320 kcal |
Protein | ~4 g |
Carbohydrates | ~45 g |
Fat | ~15 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a homemade yellow cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! A homemade yellow cake works just as well if you prefer to make it from scratch.
2. Can I substitute fresh pineapple for canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Grate or finely chop it, and add a bit of water to mimic the juice in canned pineapple.
3. How long does Elvis Presley Cake last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
4. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, Elvis Presley Cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. What should I do if my frosting is too runny?
If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
6. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of a moist, pineapple-infused cake and creamy frosting is a match made in heaven. The tanginess of the pineapple perfectly complements the richness of the cream cheese frosting, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Call to Action
Now that you’ve got everything you need, it’s time to bring this Elvis Presley Cake to life. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every sweet, decadent bite. Don’t forget to share your masterpiece with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time! Let us know how yours turned out in the comments below!
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Elvis Presley Cake: A Sweet Tribute to a Legend
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Looking for a dessert as iconic as its namesake? Elvis Presley Cake is a delicious combination of moist yellow cake, sweet pineapple topping, and creamy cream cheese frosting. Inspired by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s love for decadent treats, this cake is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, and every bite is a celebration of flavor. This tribute to Elvis is sure to have everyone singing your praises!
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- Eggs, oil, and water (as listed on the box)
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (in juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup salted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped pecans for added crunch
- Powdered sugar for a decorative finish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (or follow the instructions on your cake mix package). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. This typically involves adding eggs, oil, and water.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Pineapple Topping:
- While the cake is baking, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice) and sugar in a medium saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Poke and Pour:
- Once the cake is done baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes. While it’s still warm, use a fork to poke holes all over the top.
- Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Optional: Stir in chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake has completely cooled, drop dollops of frosting onto the surface and spread it evenly with an offset spatula.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the chilled cake into squares and serve immediately.
- Optional: Garnish with powdered sugar or extra chopped pecans for a decorative finish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality cream cheese and butter will make your frosting shine.
- Poking the Cake: Don’t skip the poking step! The holes allow the pineapple topping to soak in, making every bite extra moist and flavorful.
- Make It Your Own: Customize the cake by adding shredded coconut or swapping pecans for walnuts for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American