If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with nostalgia and packed full of delightful flavors, this Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is a must-try. Imagine moist yellow cake, infused with a luscious pineapple syrup that soaks through every bite, topped with rich, creamy frosting and a sprinkling of crunchy pecans. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery all in one indulgent treat. This recipe manages to capture that retro charm while delivering a dessert that feels as special as the King himself would have loved!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Elvis Presley Cake Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to create its unique texture and flavor harmony. From the soft yellow cake base to the tangy pineapple glaze and the silky cream cheese frosting, every ingredient works in harmony to bring this dessert to life.
- Yellow cake mix: A simple base providing moistness and a tender crumb that holds the pineapple topping perfectly.
- Eggs, oil, and water: These help activate and bind the cake mix to create the perfect structure.
- Crushed pineapple (with juice): Adds a juicy, tropical sweetness that seeps into the cake for vibrant flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pineapple mixture and enhances its syrupy texture.
- Cream cheese (softened): Provides a rich, tangy depth for the luscious frosting.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds creaminess and smoothness to the frosting’s texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for the perfect spreadable consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and complexity to the frosting’s flavor.
- Chopped pecans (optional): Offer a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast to the creamy layers.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Yellow Cake
Start by preparing your yellow cake mix following the package directions—this is the foundation that will hold all the magic of the pineapple soak and creamy topping. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and bake until golden and springy to the touch. The simplicity of this step makes the rest of the process feel like pure joy.
Step 2: Create the Pineapple Syrup
While the cake bakes, combine crushed pineapple with its juice and granulated sugar in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This step transforms the pineapple into a sweet glaze that will soak into the warm cake, creating those delightful pockets of juicy flavor that make this dessert unforgettable.
Step 3: Punch Holes and Pour Pineapple
Once the cake is out of the oven, it’s time for the fun part. Use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the cake’s surface. Immediately pour the warm pineapple syrup evenly on top, letting it seep through those holes. This ensures every bite is moist and bursting with pineapple goodness. Let the cake cool completely so the syrup can work its magic.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting becomes creamy and spreadable. This frosting is the perfect complement to the tangy pineapple-soaked cake, adding richness and a hint of indulgence.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if you like, adding a little extra texture and flavor. For best results, chill the cake before serving—this allows all the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Elvis Presley Cake Recipe, consider a few garnishing ideas. A light dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of toasted pecans, or even a few fresh pineapple slices on the side add color, texture, and visual appeal. These simple touches make the cake feel extra special when you present it to guests or family.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance its sweetness and add creaminess. If you’re enjoying it with coffee or tea, the smooth, warm drinks complement the tropical notes and creamy frosting beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this cake in classic slices or try cutting it into fun shapes with cookie cutters for parties. Another fun idea is to layer smaller versions of the cake in individual glass jars for a charming presentation that’s both portable and visually delightful. The moist texture holds up well and makes every serving feel personalized.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Elvis Presley Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the cream cheese frosting, keeping it cold is essential to maintain freshness and texture. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to save cake for later, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Note that the frosting may change slightly in texture but will still taste amazing.
Reheating
Warm a slice very briefly (about 10–15 seconds) in the microwave if you prefer a softer, slightly melty frosting experience. Be careful not to overheat, as the cream cheese layer can become oily and separate. Serving chilled is also a fantastic way to enjoy its refreshing texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh crushed pineapple, but keep the juice as well—it’s essential to create the soaking syrup that makes this cake so moist and flavorful.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! With no meat or gelatin products, this Elvis Presley Cake Recipe fits perfectly within a vegetarian diet.
Can I make the cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten contamination.
What’s the best way to toast pecans for garnish?
Simply place chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3–5 minutes. Let them cool before topping the cake.
Does the cake taste better the next day?
Definitely! The Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is known to develop deeper flavor and more moist texture when allowed to rest overnight in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience filled with history, flavor, and warmth. Whether you’re a longtime fan of retro treats or discovering this classic for the first time, it’s sure to impress and satisfy. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and share in the joyful tradition of this beloved cake—it might just become your new favorite!
Print
Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus cooling and chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Elvis Presley Cake is a nostalgic and moist yellow cake infused with a sweet pineapple topping, layered with a luscious cream cheese frosting, and finished with crunchy pecans. A perfect retro dessert that gets better with time and adds a delightful tropical twist to any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box – eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Frosting
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cake mix: Follow the package directions for the yellow cake mix, incorporating the required eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake according to package instructions, usually around 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cook pineapple mixture: While the cake bakes, combine the crushed pineapple and its juice with 1 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Poke holes and pour pineapple: Once the cake is removed from the oven, use a skewer or fork to poke holes evenly all over the surface. Immediately pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake so it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely to let the flavors meld.
- Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and fully combined.
- Frost and top the cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pineapple-soaked cake. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top if desired. For best texture and flavor, chill the cake before serving.
Notes
- The Elvis Presley Cake flavor improves when made a day ahead, allowing the pineapple and frosting to meld beautifully.
- For extra crunch and enhanced flavor, consider toasting the chopped pecans before sprinkling on top.
