The Elvis Presley Cake is a delightful homage to the legendary rock and roll icon, Elvis Presley. Known for his larger-than-life presence and love for indulgent food, this cake carries his spirit into the kitchen. With a creamy pineapple topping and a luscious cream cheese frosting, each slice embodies the sweetness associated with the King himself. Whether you’re a fan of Elvis or simply crave a unique dessert, this cake is sure to captivate your taste buds and heart.
Why We Love This Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
The love for Elvis Presley Cake transcends mere fandom; it celebrates a nostalgic connection to both food and music. Imagine a gathering where friends and family come together, and the centerpiece is a beautifully decorated Elvis Presley Cake. This dessert is not just about enjoying a slice—it’s about sharing experiences, creating memories, and enjoying the joy that comes with great food.
What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a baking expert to create this masterpiece. With basic ingredients that are often found in your pantry, you can whip up a cake that embodies comfort and joy. Plus, it’s a crowd favorite, guaranteed to bring smiles to any gathering. The lush creaminess of the frosting complements the moist cake perfectly, while the crushed pineapple adds a refreshing twist, making it an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients for Elvis Presley Cake
To create this wonderful cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- Eggs, as needed for the cake
- Oil, as needed for the cake
- Water, as needed for the cake
- 20-ounce can crushed pineapple in juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened (1 stick)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
These basic ingredients come together to create a cake that will leave your guests asking for seconds. When you have everything measured and ready, you’re halfway to creating a show-stopper dessert.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake
Making Elvis Presley Cake involves several straightforward steps that will lead you to a delicious outcome. Here’s how to make it:
Prepare the Cake Base: Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring it’s ready for the batter. Follow the instructions on the box for the yellow cake mix by combining the mix with the required eggs, oil, and water. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for the time indicated on the package.
Create the Pineapple Topping: While the cake is baking, it’s time to make the pineapple mixture. Take a medium saucepan and combine the crushed pineapple with the juice and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Once ready, remove it from heat, and set it aside to cool slightly.
Poke the Cake: When the cake has finished baking, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Once it’s cooled slightly, take a fork and poke holes all over the top of the cake. This will allow the pineapple mixture to soak into the cake, adding moisture and flavor.
Soak the Cake: Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Let the cake cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until you achieve a smooth texture. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until creamy. If you opted for pecans, fold them in at this stage for added crunch and flavor.
Frost the Cake: Once your cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top, ensuring it covers the pineapple layer.
Chill and Serve: For the best texture and flavor, chill the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. This will give the flavors time to develop and the frosting to set.
By following these steps, you’ll not only craft a delicious cake but also fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of baking.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake
Serving Elvis Presley Cake is all about presentation and enjoyment. Once the cake has been chilled and is ready for your gathering, here’s how to make it extra special:
Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into squares. A spatula can help lift them onto individual plates.
Add Garnishes: For a delightful touch, consider garnishing each slice with additional chopped nuts or fresh slices of pineapple. A sprig of mint can also add a pop of color and freshness.
Pair with Beverages: This cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving it with coffee, iced tea, or even a glass of milk. The flavors of the cake will complement these drinks beautifully.
Create a Dessert Table: If you’re hosting a party, consider featuring the cake on a dessert table, along with other sweet treats. This inviting display encourages guests to indulge.
No matter how you serve it, each slice of Elvis Presley Cake is sure to bring happiness to your table.
Expert Tips for Elvis Presley Cake
To ensure your Elvis Presley Cake turns out perfectly, here are a few expert tips to consider:
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh eggs and ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy frosting.
Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before pouring the pineapple mixture over it. This helps the flavors to meld without making the cake soggy.
Chill for Best Results: While it might be tempting to serve the cake right away, allowing it to chill will enhance its flavor and texture. The chilling time also helps the frosting set beautifully.
Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to taste the frosting and adjust the sweetness if needed. You can add more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter frosting or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Implementing these tips will elevate your cake-making experience and ensure that you serve a dessert that everyone will rave about.
How to Store Elvis Presley Cake
Proper storage is essential to keep your Elvis Presley Cake fresh and delicious. Here’s how to do it:
Refrigerate: Since this cake contains cream cheese frosting, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Enjoy Within a Week: For optimal flavor and texture, try to enjoy the cake within a week. It’s easy to grab a slice whenever a sweet craving strikes!
Freezing Options: If you have leftovers and want to save them for later, you can freeze slices. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Following these storage tips will ensure you can savor every delicious bite of this cake.
Variations of Elvis Presley Cake
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several variations you can try to personalize your Elvis Presley Cake:
Banana Layer: Embrace the Elvis connection by adding a layer of mashed bananas between the cake and frosting. This will produce a rich and fruity flavor that’s reminiscent of the King’s favorite treats.
Chocolate Ganache: Instead of the cream cheese frosting, consider topping your cake with a rich chocolate ganache for a decadently sweet flavor twist.
Coconut Frosting: To give your cake a tropical flair, blend shredded coconut into your frosting for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Nut Substitute: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or even chocolate chips. Each addition will bring a unique texture and taste to your cake.
No matter how you modify it, each version of Elvis Presley Cake will be met with enthusiasm.
FAQ Section
What is Elvis Presley Cake?
Elvis Presley Cake is a moist yellow cake topped with a creamy pineapple mixture and rich cream cheese frosting. It’s named after Elvis Presley, combining dessert with nostalgia tied to the music legend.
How do you make Elvis Presley Cake?
To make this delicious cake, prepare a yellow cake mix according to its package directions, pour a sweet pineapple mixture over it, and top it with a cream cheese frosting. Chill before serving to enhance the flavors.
Can I use other fruit in Elvis Presley Cake?
Yes! While crushed pineapple is traditional, you can experiment with other fruits such as peaches or strawberries. This will create a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
How do I store leftovers of Elvis Presley Cake?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly covered to prevent drying out. If you need to keep it for longer, consider freezing slices in individual portions.
Can I make Elvis Presley Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to let it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving to achieve the best flavor and texture.

Elvis Presley Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowls:
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- eggs as needed for the cake
- oil as needed for the cake
- water as needed for the cake
- 20 oz. can crushed pineapple in juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 8 oz. cream cheese softened
- ½ cup salted butter softened (1 stick)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk for glaze
- ½ cup chopped pecans optional
Instructions
- Prepare the cake according to the package instructions in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- While the cake is baking, combine the crushed pineapple and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- When the cake is done, allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Poke holes in the top with a fork.
- Pour the warm pineapple mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and milk until creamy.
- Once the cake is cool, frost it with the cream cheese mixture and top with chopped pecans if desired.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor.
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