The moment I first tasted Elvis Presley Cake, I was transported to a lively diner in Memphis, where the King himself might have savored each bite. This delightful dessert is a show-stopper, combining a moist yellow cake infused with the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple and topped with a cream cheese frosting that’s simply irresistible. Not only is this Elvis Presley Cake a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings and celebrations, but it also brings together those comforting elements of homemade goodness in just about an hour and a half. Whether you're a passionate home chef or just looking to bring a unique twist to dessert night, this cake is sure to become a new favorite. Are you ready to channel your inner rock star and bake something spectacular?
Why is Elvis Presley Cake a Must-Try?
Decadent, Tropical Twist: This cake melds classic yellow cake with sweet crushed pineapple, creating a flavor that radiates warmth and nostalgia.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, even novice bakers can shine. Just mix, bake, and soak!
Creamy, Dreamy Frosting: Topping it off is a luscious cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the cake's sweetness, making each bite delightful.
Perfect for Sharing: With generous servings, it's ideal for parties, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile.
Time-Saving Treat: In just over an hour, you can serve a dessert that feels like it's straight from a bakery, impressing your guests without the fuss.
Get ready to fall in love with this Elvis Presley Cake and make it your next baking adventure!
Elvis Presley Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Yellow cake mix – This is the base of your cake; choose your favorite brand for the best results.
- Eggs – Essential for structure; use large eggs as indicated on the cake mix box.
- Oil – Helps keep the cake moist; vegetable or canola work well.
- Water – Required for mixing; follow the box instructions for the right amount.
For the Pineapple Topping
- Crushed pineapple – Adds that tropical twist, along with its juice for extra moisture—don’t drain it!
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the pineapple topping, so adjust to taste if you like it less sweet.
For the Frosting
- Cream cheese – Gives your frosting a rich and creamy texture; make sure it's softened for easy blending.
- Unsalted butter – Adds a buttery flavor; also softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting; feel free to adjust for your desired sweetness level.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting, making it irresistible!
Optional Topping
- Chopped pecans or walnuts – If you love a bit of crunch, add these on top for that extra delightful texture!
Get ready to whip up this Elvis Presley Cake and enjoy its spectacular blend of flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Elvis Presley Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with the ingredients listed on the box—typically eggs, oil, and water. Mix until well blended, then pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is lightly golden.
Step 2: Poke Holes
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and set it on a cooling rack for about 10 minutes. While it's still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake, creating space for the luscious pineapple topping to soak in. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite of your Elvis Presley Cake is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Make the Pineapple Topping
In a medium saucepan, combine the can of crushed pineapple (with its juice) and the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely into the pineapple. After about 5–7 minutes of simmering, remove from heat and let it cool slightly, preparing for the next delicious step.
Step 4: Soak the Cake
Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the poked holes in the hot cake, ensuring it seeps in for maximum flavor. Watch as the cake absorbs the sweet, syrupy goodness, creating a moist and decadent base. Allow the cake to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Cool the Cake
After the cake has soaked, cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap and let it cool completely, which may take about 30 minutes to an hour. This step is vital for a well-set cake, ensuring that the frosting will spread easily and that every slice of your Elvis Presley Cake remains perfectly intact.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until everything is well combined and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract, creating a luscious frosting that will complement the cake beautifully.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, use a spatula to gently spread the cream cheese frosting over the top, ensuring an even layer that covers every inch of this Elvis Presley Cake. If you like, sprinkle your choice of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Place the frosted cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld together while firming up the frosting. Once set, slice into squares and get ready to serve a piece of comfort that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Elvis Presley Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and personalize this cake in delightful ways!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix for an inclusive treat that's just as tasty. This ensures everyone can enjoy the indulgence.
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Pineapple-Forward: Add an extra can of pineapple, increasing the amount for an even more tropical experience. This makes every bite a juicy delight!
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Coconut Delight: Incorporate 1 cup of shredded coconut into the frosting for a rich, tropical flavor explosion. The nutty texture pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting.
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Reduced Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for a sugar substitute to lower the sweetness while still enjoying the cake’s delightful flavors. This slight adjustment caters to those mindful of sugar intake.
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Chocolate Twist: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the cake mix for a rich chocolate Elvis Presley Cake. The balance of chocolate and pineapple creates a fascinating flavor profile.
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Berry Boost: Replace the chopped nuts with fresh or frozen berries in the topping for a juicy burst of flavor. Strawberries or blueberries complement the tropical notes beautifully!
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Nutty Variations: Try slivered almonds or crushed hazelnuts as an alternative to pecans or walnuts for a fun twist. Each nut brings its unique character to the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting for a warm spice undertone. This subtle heat can elevate every scrumptious bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Elvis Presley Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture. The pineapple topping can also be made ahead, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cake with the cream cheese mixture, chill it for at least one hour, and enjoy the same delightful, flavorful experience as if you just made it! With these tips, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade dessert without the last-minute rush.
What to Serve with Elvis Presley Cake?
Delight your dinner guests by pairing this sweet treat with comforting side dishes and refreshing beverages that balance its rich flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold treat melts beautifully over warm cake, enhancing its tropical notes and providing a delightful contrast.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries and citrus offers a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the sweetness of the cake and adding a vibrant touch.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top elevates each slice, making every bite feel like indulgence wrapped in comfort.
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee complements the rich flavors of the Elvis Presley Cake, making for the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or sweet ending to a meal.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw provide a delicious contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cake with its savory crunch.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing, zesty drink that brightens the palate and adds a touch of fun to your dessert spread, making it perfect for gatherings.
- Chocolate-Covered Pecans: If you’re a nut lover, these add a crunchy bite and deepen the flavor profile, pairing beautifully with the cake's tropical notes.
- Peach Cobbler: For those who love a double dessert night, a warm peach cobbler evokes the same homey warmth and sweetness as your cake without competing for attention.
- Mint Iced Tea: This cooling herbal drink refreshes your palate and is especially perfect for warm gatherings, giving a light finish after enjoying cake.
Expert Tips for Elvis Presley Cake
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and a good quality yellow cake mix for the best texture and flavor in your Elvis Presley Cake.
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Poking Holes Correctly: Make sure to poke enough holes after baking, allowing the pineapple mixture to soak in deeply. This is key to a moist cake!
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Cool Completely: Let the cake cool entirely before adding the frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish to your Elvis Presley Cake.
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Chill Before Serving: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the cake to sit in the fridge for an hour helps the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
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Experiment with Nuts: If you're unsure about using pecans or walnuts, try them out in a small section of the cake first. They add a delightful crunch to the overall creamy texture!
How to Store and Freeze Elvis Presley Cake
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Elvis Presley Cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, keeping it covered to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure it's well-covered to avoid absorbing other odors.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It will last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, gently microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Elvis Presley Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pineapples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe pineapples add an incredible burst of flavor. Look for pineapples with a sweet aroma at the base, a firm feel, and a golden color. Avoid any with dark spots or excessive softness, as they may be overripe or starting to spoil.
How should I store leftover Elvis Presley Cake?
Very! You can store your Elvis Presley Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it well-covered to prevent absorbing any unwanted odors. It’s perfect for those late-night sweet cravings or as a delightful lunchbox treat!
Can I freeze Elvis Presley Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cake into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap in aluminum foil. The cake will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and indulge!
What should I do if my frosting is too runny?
No worries! If your cream cheese frosting turns out too runny, you can easily fix it. Start by refrigerating it for about 15–20 minutes to firm it up. If it still needs some extra structure, gradually add more powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve the desired consistency.
Is Elvis Presley Cake safe for people with nut allergies?
The more the merrier! If you're catering to individuals with nut allergies, simply omit the chopped pecans or walnuts. This cake is delicious on its own and remains a safe, crowd-pleasing treat for everyone without the nuts. Always double-check your ingredients to ensure everyone's safety.
Indulgent Elvis Presley Cake That's Pulse of Comfort
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- 9x13 inch Pan
- medium saucepan
- spatula
- Fork or Skewer
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix choose your favorite brand
- 3 large eggs as indicated on the cake mix box
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil to keep the cake moist
- 1 cup water follow the box instructions
For the Pineapple Topping
- 1 can crushed pineapple don’t drain it, include juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar adjust for desired sweetness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance flavor
Optional Topping
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, oil, and water in a mixing bowl and mix well. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Remove the cake from the oven and set it on a cooling rack for about 10 minutes. Poke holes in the top of the cake using a fork or skewer.
- In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple and sugar over medium heat. Stir and bring to a gentle boil for about 5-7 minutes until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the poked holes in the cake, ensuring it seeps into the cake.
- Allow the cake to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Cover with foil or plastic wrap and let cool completely for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake and sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
