They say Elvis loved rich, sweet, comforting desserts — and this Elvis Presley Cake, sometimes called Jailhouse Rock Cake, is exactly that! A tender white cake layered with juicy pineapple topping and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Every bite is creamy, tropical, and melt-in-your-mouth good — the kind of old-fashioned dessert that makes you want to sing “Can’t Help Falling in Love!”
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Overview of the Recipe
This nostalgic Elvis Presley Cake starts with a simple white cake mix (because easy is always in style!), soaked in a buttery-sweet pineapple glaze, and topped with smooth cream cheese frosting. It’s moist, tangy, creamy, and indulgent — fit for The King himself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🎤 Easy to make: Starts with a cake mix, ends like a bakery masterpiece.
- 🍍 Bursting with tropical flavor: That pineapple topping is everything!
- 🍰 Crowd favorite: Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, and Sunday gatherings.
- 💕 Retro dessert with modern charm: A classic that never goes out of style.
What Does It Taste Like?
Think of sweet pineapple upside-down cake vibes — but softer, creamier, and even more decadent. The tang of pineapple balances the sweet frosting perfectly, and that moist, tender cake? Pure heaven.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Simple pantry ingredients.
- Feeds a crowd (9x13 pan size).
- Make-ahead friendly.
- Stays moist for days!
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box — usually eggs, oil, and water)
For the Pineapple Mixture
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or toasted coconut for topping
Tools You’ll Need
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Saucepan (for pineapple mixture)
- Hand or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Additions & Substitutions
- Swap white cake mix for yellow cake mix for a richer flavor.
- Use brown sugar instead of granulated for a caramelized pineapple topping.
- Add shredded coconut or pecans to the frosting for texture.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle a little caramel sauce before serving!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Elvis Presley Cake
1. Bake the Cake
Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Pour into a greased 9x13-inch pan and bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Make the Pineapple Glaze
In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple (with juice) and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring often, until thickened slightly (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
3. Pour and Soak
While the cake is still warm, poke small holes across the surface with a fork or skewer. Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, letting it soak in. Let the cake cool completely.
4. Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy.
5. Frost the Cake
Spread the frosting over the cooled, pineapple-soaked cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans or toasted coconut for that classic Southern touch.
What to Serve With It
This cake pairs beautifully with:
- A hot cup of coffee or tea ☕
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨
- Or simply by itself — it’s sweet perfection!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Always let the cake cool before frosting so it doesn’t melt.
- For an extra moist cake, don’t skimp on the pineapple syrup soak.
- Use real butter and full-fat cream cheese — Elvis wouldn’t have it any other way!
- Store it chilled, but serve at room temperature for the creamiest texture.
Storage Instructions
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze it (unfrosted) for up to 2 months — thaw, then top with frosting before serving.
General Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serves: 12–15 slices
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pineapple tidbits instead of crushed?
Crushed works best for even soaking, but tidbits can be used if chopped finely.
Can I make this cake ahead?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Can I use homemade cake batter?
Absolutely — just use a basic white or yellow butter cake recipe.
Conclusion
The Elvis Presley Cake is a true Southern classic — sweet, creamy, and full of that golden pineapple goodness that The King himself would’ve approved of. It’s easy, it’s nostalgic, and it’s guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.
If you loved this one, don’t miss these other retro dessert hits:
- 🍍 Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake
- 🍓 Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- 🍰 Special Fruit Pave – A Creamy, Fruity Dessert You’ll Crave Again and Again!
💬 I’d Love to Hear From You!
Tried this Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake)? Leave a (C.O.M.M.E.N.T) below and tell me how it turned out! I love seeing your photos and hearing your baking stories — thank you for keeping these classics alive! 🎶
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 370
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 4g
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