Elvis Presley Cake

Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – A Rock ‘n’ Roll Spin on a Classic Dessert

If you’re a fan of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and also have a sweet tooth, this Elvis Presley Cake will hit all the right notes! This nostalgic dessert is moist, fruity, and topped with a creamy, nutty frosting that will have you singing “Jailhouse Rock” with every bite. Legend has it that this was one of Elvis’s favorite cakes — a Southern delight with pineapple, cream cheese, and pecans that perfectly capture the charm of home cooking in the 1950s.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Super Moist: The combination of white cake and crushed pineapple makes it irresistibly soft.
• Old-Fashioned Flavor: A recipe that feels like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen.
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any occasion where dessert is a must.
• Quick and Easy: Uses a boxed cake mix but turns out bakery-level delicious.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the package: eggs, oil, water)
• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice, do not drain)

For the Topping:

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar (adjust for sweetness and consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional but highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the white cake mix according to package instructions.
4. Stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice — this adds moisture and a sweet tropical flavor.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan.

2. Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Stir in chopped pecans for crunch and flavor (optional).

3. Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. For extra Southern charm, sprinkle additional pecans on top.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for the Perfect Elvis Presley Cake

• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: This ensures a rich, creamy frosting.
• Don’t Drain the Pineapple: The juice is what makes the cake so moist.
• Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day after chilling overnight.
• Customize It: Swap pecans for walnuts, or add a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for a tropical twist.

Storage

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
• You can also freeze it (unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

The King’s Sweet Legacy

Elvis Presley had a well-known love for indulgent Southern foods, and this cake is a delicious tribute to that. It’s simple, comforting, and just the right mix of sweet and tangy — a dessert fit for the King himself.

So whether you’re hosting a rock ‘n’ roll-themed party or just want to treat yourself to a slice of nostalgia, this Elvis Presley Cake will have you saying, “Thank you, thank you very much.”