If you are a fan of rich textures and tropical flavors wrapped up in a classic Southern dessert, the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful cake brings together tender white cake soaked with a luscious pineapple mixture and topped with a creamy, pecan-studded cream cheese frosting. Every bite offers that perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and a hint of paradise that Elvis himself would have swooned over. Trust me, once you dive into this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to showstopper for celebrations or any time you want to treat yourself and loved ones to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all you need to bring this Elvis Presley Cake Recipe to life. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that signature moistness, tangy-sweet flavor, and nutty crunch that makes this cake unforgettable.
- White Cake Mix: Provides a soft, fluffy base that soaks up all the delicious pineapple syrup perfectly.
- 8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (with juice): Adds juicy sweetness and moisture that brightens the cake’s flavor beautifully.
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pineapple mixture for a balanced taste.
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (for pineapple mixture): Enhances the pineapple’s natural flavors with a touch of warmth.
- 8 oz package Cream Cheese, softened: Creates a rich and tangy base for the frosting.
- ½ cup Butter, softened: Adds creaminess and helps the frosting spread smoothly.
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (for frosting): Delivers a delicate flavor that complements the cream cheese.
- 3 cups Crushed Pecans: Provides a toasty crunch that brings texture and depth.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preparing your white cake mix according to the package instructions. Use your favorite cake pan and bake it to golden perfection. Once it comes out of the oven, patience is key—allow the cake to cool completely before moving forward to ensure it doesn’t crumble when you add the pineapple mixture.
Step 2: Create the Pineapple Pockets
Using the end of a wooden spoon, gently poke holes all over the surface of the cooled cake. These holes are essential because they’ll allow the pineapple syrup to soak deep into the cake layers, infusing them with juicy, tropical sweetness that makes each slice so moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Make the Pineapple Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the can of crushed pineapple (with its juice), granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Bring this vibrant mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally—this helps dissolve the sugar completely and melds the flavors, creating a luscious syrup that’s almost irresistible.
Step 4: Soak the Cake
While the pineapple mixture is still hot, pour it evenly over the hole-poked cake. Take your time to ensure the syrup seeps thoroughly into every nook and cranny, turning the cake into a tender, juicy treat that tastes like a slice of heaven by the first bite.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until you achieve a silky smooth consistency. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the remaining ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for depth. Then gently fold in 2 cups of crushed pecans. The frosting should be thick yet spreadable, with just the right hint of nutty goodness woven through.
Step 6: Frost and Garnish
Spread this delectable frosting evenly over your pineapple-soaked cake, ensuring every corner is covered. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crushed pecans on top for that eye-catching finish and extra crunch Elvis Presley Cake Recipe fans love.
Step 7: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
The last step is a test of patience—but well worth the wait. Refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to marry perfectly, giving you a cake that is moist, creamy, and bursting with classic Southern charm.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Keep garnishes simple to highlight the rich textures and flavors. Freshly chopped pecans or a few pineapple slices on the side add a nice touch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can give the cake a festive and elegant look without overpowering its character.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts with the cake’s dense, fruity layers, creating a delightful harmony of temperatures and textures. For a beverage, a cup of strong black coffee or sweet tea complements the dessert’s sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, consider serving the cake as individual parfaits by layering cake pieces, pineapple syrup, and frosting in elegant glasses topped with pecans. Alternatively, garnish each slice with edible flowers or drizzle caramel sauce for a fun twist that still honors the original Elvis Presley Cake Recipe spirit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Elvis Presley Cake Recipe keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use an airtight container to maintain the frosting’s creamy texture and prevent the cake from drying out. Enjoy chilled or bring it to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cake portions can last up to 2 months without losing their moist texture and flavor profile.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled with its creamy frosting, reheating isn’t usually recommended. However, if you prefer a warmer dessert, allow the cake to thaw completely and warm slightly in a low temperature oven for a few minutes, just enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix for this Elvis Presley Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! A homemade white cake will work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s fluffy and cooled completely before soaking it with the pineapple mixture for the best results.
Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the pecans from both the frosting and the garnish. You can replace them with toasted coconut flakes or sunflower seeds for an alternative crunch if you like.
How long does this cake need to chill before serving?
For optimal flavor and texture, chilling the cake for at least 6 hours is important, but overnight refrigeration is ideal to let all the flavors meld properly.
Can I substitute crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple?
Using fresh pineapple is possible, but crushed canned pineapple with juice provides consistent sweetness and moisture. If using fresh, make sure it’s finely chopped and allow the juice to soak into the cake well.
What is the best way to serve this cake to a crowd?
Serving Elvis Presley Cake Recipe in individual slices on pretty plates with a sprinkle of extra pecans or a small side of whipped cream is perfect for gatherings. You can also prepare it in a roasting pan for easy slicing and serving.
Final Thoughts
Making the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is like inviting a little slice of musical legend and Southern comfort into your kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat yet impressive enough for special occasions, delivering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors each time. I wholeheartedly encourage you to bake this cake and share it with friends and family—once you do, it’s bound to become one of your favorite desserts to make over and over.
Print
Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (+ 6 hours chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Elvis Presley Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert combining a classic white cake soaked with a sweet pineapple mixture, layered with creamy cream cheese frosting, and generously topped with crunchy pecans. This southern-inspired treat is perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a rich, fruity cake with a delightful nutty finish.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 White Cake Mix (prepared as per package directions)
Pineapple Mixture
- 8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- ½ cup Butter, softened
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3 cups Crushed Pecans (divided into 2 cups for frosting and 1 cup for garnish)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Prepare the white cake according to the package instructions in your desired cake pan. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
- Prepare Cake for Soaking: Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly throughout the entire surface of the cooled cake. This will allow the pineapple mixture to seep deeply into the cake for maximum flavor.
- Make Pineapple Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple with its juice, granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir the mixture while heating it over medium heat until it reaches a boil.
- Soak the Cake: Pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cooled cake, ensuring it fills the holes and soaks the cake thoroughly.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add in the powdered sugar and the remaining ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Pecans into Frosting: Stir in 2 cups of crushed pecans to the frosting mixture until evenly distributed.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese and pecan frosting evenly over the pineapple-soaked cake.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crushed pecans over the top of the frosted cake to add a crunchy texture and decorative finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours or ideally overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set perfectly before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use a cake pan size recommended on the cake mix box, usually 9×13 inches.
- The cake is best served chilled, and leftovers should be kept refrigerated to maintain freshness.
- You can toast the pecans lightly for added flavor before incorporating into the frosting and garnish.
- Make sure the cake is completely cooled before pouring the hot pineapple mixture to prevent it from melting the frosting later.
- This recipe can be adapted by using a homemade white cake batter if preferred.
