If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert with just the right balance of sweetness, a burst of tropical pineapple, and a nutty, creamy finish, Elvis Presley Cake might just become your new obsession. This beloved sheet cake checks every box – it’s incredibly easy to make, utterly indulgent, and loaded with nostalgic flavor. From its moist, pineapple-studded crumb to its dreamy cream cheese frosting and avalanche of pecans, Elvis Presley Cake is pure Southern comfort that deserves a permanent place in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the most delightful things about Elvis Presley Cake is how it transforms a handful of humble ingredients into a dessert fit for a king. Each component has a special role to play, from the pineapple’s bright tang to the luxurious richness of cream cheese and butter. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic treat:
- White cake mix: The perfect blank canvas, offering tender structure and allowing all the other flavors to shine.
- Crushed pineapple (with juice): Adds moisture, tang, and a fruity twist that makes this cake unforgettable.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the pineapple tang and sweetens up both the cake and the topping.
- Vanilla extract (for pineapple mix): Round out the flavors and gives the pineapple layer a luscious aroma.
- Cream cheese, softened: The heart of that cloud-like frosting; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!
- Butter, softened: Lends rich, creamy body to your frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting; don’t skip sifting if you want a silky-smooth finish!
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): Just a touch to make the frosting sing.
- Crushed pecans: The final, crunchy flourish, adding flavor, texture, and that signature Southern flair.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan—you want to make sure each slice releases like a dream. This step sets you up for cake success, so take a moment here!
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything becomes a soft, luscious batter; you’ll notice it smells incredible already! The pineapple acts as both flavor and moisture, so don’t drain it.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the pineapple batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or just until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye in the last few minutes—it’s worth the patience. Let the cake cool completely before moving on; this ensures your frosting stays beautifully fluffy.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until ultra-creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, a cup at a time, and vanilla extract. Keep beating until the frosting is smooth, glossy, and irresistible. This is the secret to that classic Elvis Presley Cake finish!
Step 5: Frost the Cake
Once your cake is thoroughly cooled, gently spread the cream cheese frosting all over the top, taking care to cover every corner. Don’t skimp! The thick layer of frosting is crucial to this cake’s signature decadence.
Step 6: Add the Pecans
Scatter the crushed pecans generously across the frosted cake, lightly pressing them into the surface so they stick. Their crunch adds so much character to each bite and is part of what puts Elvis Presley Cake in a league of its own.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake
Garnishes
To make Elvis Presley Cake extra memorable, try a simple flourish: sprinkle a few extra pecans on each slice just before serving. A handful of pineapple tidbits or maraschino cherries also look beautiful and complement the tropical notes.
Side Dishes
Since the cake is flavorful and rich, pair it with something refreshing—think fresh fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. These sides bring brightness and a fun finish to your dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
Elvis Presley Cake is fantastic for a crowd when sliced into squares and served at potlucks or parties. For special occasions, try cutting the cake into layers and stacking them for a “tall” effect, or serve petite bites in cupcake wrappers for easy, grab-and-go delights. If you love a vintage vibe, place a pineapple ring and cherry on every slice!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors even deepen after a day, making Elvis Presley Cake a great make-ahead option. It’ll stay fresh for up to four days.
Freezing
If you need to freeze Elvis Presley Cake, cut it into squares and wrap each piece individually before freezing. Store the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Let slices thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
This cake is typically served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. But if you prefer a touch of warmth (which makes the frosting a little gooey!), pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds—just keep an eye on it.
FAQs
Can I use a yellow cake mix instead of white?
Absolutely! A yellow cake mix will yield a slightly richer flavor, and it works beautifully with the pineapple and pecans. Use whatever you have on hand—the result will still be a delicious Elvis Presley Cake.
Do I have to use pecans, or can I swap them out?
You can easily swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or leave them off for a nut-free version. If you’re avoiding nuts entirely, toasted coconut could make a delightful crispy topping instead.
Will canned pineapple rings work if I don’t have crushed pineapple?
If you only have pineapple rings or chunks, pulse them in a food processor or finely chop them. Be sure to use the juice as well—texture matters here, and you want small, juicy bits throughout the cake.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Elvis Presley Cake actually improves after a day in the fridge, as the flavors meld together. Just cover it well, and hold off on adding the pecans until just before serving if you prefer them extra crisp.
Does Elvis Presley Cake need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to store the cake in the refrigerator. Bring slices to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re throwing a nostalgic get-together, bringing a treat to a potluck, or simply craving a little taste of rock-and-roll history, Elvis Presley Cake is a dessert worth singing about. Try it once and you’ll find yourself wanting to make it for every occasion—this is one recipe that can’t help falling in love with everyone who takes a bite!
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Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus cooling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elvis Presley Cake is a luscious Southern-style dessert bursting with tropical pineapple flavor, creamy frosting, and nutty pecans.
Ingredients
1 box white cake mix
8 oz can crushed pineapple (with juice)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract (for pineapple mix)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
3 cups crushed pecans
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, combine cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Spread batter in the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Press crushed pecans gently onto the frosting layer.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider toasting the pecans before pressing them into the frosting. The cake tastes even better when chilled before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American