If you love classic desserts with a rich backstory, the Elvis Presley cake is a must-try. Famous for its indulgent layers of moist cake, sweet pineapple, creamy frosting, and crunchy pecans, this Southern favorite is said to be one of Elvis’s beloved treats. With the right techniques and tips, you can make the perfect Elvis Presley cake every time—soft, flavorful, and irresistibly nostalgic.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from ingredients and baking secrets to serving tips, making it ideal for home bakers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
What Is Elvis Presley Cake?
The Elvis Presley cake, also known as Elvis cake or Jailhouse Rock cake, is a moist vanilla or yellow cake soaked with crushed pineapple and topped with a creamy frosting made from cream cheese or whipped topping, then finished with chopped pecans.
What makes this cake special is its contrast of textures:
Soft, fluffy cake
Juicy pineapple infusion
Rich, creamy topping
Crunchy nut finish
Why Everyone Loves Elvis Presley Cake
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Incredibly moist and flavorful
Perfect for parties, potlucks, and holidays
A nostalgic Southern classic
Once you learn the method, you’ll understand why so many bakers swear by this dessert.
Ingredients for the Perfect Elvis Presley Cake
For the Cake
1 box yellow or vanilla cake mix
Eggs, oil, and water (as directed on the box)
For the Pineapple Layer
1 can (20 oz / 565 g) crushed pineapple
1 cup granulated sugar
For the Topping
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2–3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
💡 Tip: Use crushed pineapple in juice, not syrup, for the best balance of sweetness.
Step-by-Step: Perfect Elvis Presley Cake Every Time
1. Bake the Cake
Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions. Bake in a greased 9×13-inch pan until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Poke the Cake
While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface. This allows the pineapple mixture to soak in fully.
3. Prepare the Pineapple Topping
In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple (with juice) and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Pour and Soak
Pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the warm cake, making sure it fills the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
Making the Creamy Frosting
Cream Cheese Topping
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
Secrets to the Perfect Elvis Presley Cake
Don’t Skip the Cooling Step
Always allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This keeps the topping smooth and prevents melting.
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients
Softened butter and cream cheese blend better and create a silkier texture.
Balance the Sweetness
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or use unsweetened pineapple.
Let It Rest
Chill the cake for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This allows flavors to meld and improves texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Pouring pineapple mixture on a cold cake
Overbaking the cake base
Frosting while the cake is still warm
Skipping the poke holes
Avoiding these ensures a perfect Elvis Presley cake every time.
Delicious Variations to Try
Banana Elvis Cake: Add sliced bananas between the pineapple and frosting
Coconut Twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top
Chocolate Elvis Cake: Use chocolate cake mix for a richer version
Lighter Version: Substitute whipped topping for cream cheese frosting
Serving Suggestions
Serve Elvis Presley cake:
Chilled or at room temperature
With coffee or iced tea
As a make-ahead dessert for gatherings
This cake travels well and tastes even better the next day.
Conclusion
Now you know how to make the perfect Elvis Presley cake every time, from baking the base to mastering the pineapple soak and creamy topping. With its moist texture, sweet tropical flavor, and rich frosting, this iconic dessert never fails to impress.
Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply craving a comforting classic, this Elvis Presley cake recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a slice of rock-and-roll–inspired sweetness!