Elvis Presley Cake: A Rich, Creamy Delight Fit for a King

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as legendary as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself, look no further than the Elvis Presley Cake, also known as Jailhouse Rock Cake. This decadent dessert has all the flavors you crave—rich cream cheese, buttery goodness, tropical pineapple, and crunchy pecans, making it a perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and nutty. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a slice of heaven, this cake will not disappoint.

Why is it called Elvis Presley Cake?

The story behind the cake’s name is just as fascinating as its flavor. Legend has it that Elvis Presley was known for his love of indulgent treats, and this cake, with its Southern charm and richness, became associated with him. It’s believed that this cake was a favorite of his and often enjoyed by his family. The combination of cream cheese and pineapple gives the cake a tropical flair, while the buttery base and pecan topping keep it firmly rooted in the Southern tradition, where Elvis was born and raised.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this luscious cake, you’ll need some basic ingredients that come together in an extraordinary way:

8 oz can crushed pineapple, drained
8 oz package cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 box white cake mix (or homemade white cake batter)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup whole pecans (optional for garnish)
Whipped topping (optional, for extra creaminess)

These ingredients create a moist, flavorful cake with a cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the tropical hint of pineapple and the crunch of pecans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Start by preparing the white cake mix according to the package instructions (or use your homemade white cake recipe). Bake in a greased 9×13-inch cake pan. Once the cake is fully baked, allow it to cool completely before moving on to the next step.

2. Prepare the Pineapple and Cream Cheese Topping

While the cake cools, you can start preparing the signature pineapple and cream cheese frosting that gives the Elvis Presley Cake its signature taste.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and softened butter. Beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue beating until fully incorporated. Finally, fold in the drained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract. Mix well to distribute the pineapple evenly throughout the frosting.

3. Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, use a spatula to spread the pineapple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Make sure to cover every corner so that each bite is filled with the delightful creaminess.

4. Add the Pecans

Sprinkle the chopped pecans generously over the frosting. For an added touch, place whole pecans decoratively around the edges or on top of the cake. The crunchy texture from the pecans adds the perfect contrast to the soft, creamy frosting and moist cake layers.

5. Chill Before Serving

For best results, refrigerate the Elvis Presley Cake for at least two hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together, and the frosting will firm up slightly, making it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

Elvis Presley Cake is a show-stopper dessert, perfect for serving at family gatherings, potlucks, or even a dinner party. Since the cake has a tropical vibe thanks to the pineapple, it pairs wonderfully with fruity drinks like pineapple lemonade or a refreshing iced tea. For an extra indulgent touch, you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice before serving.

Storing the Cake

This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you want to freeze it for later, cut it into individual slices and wrap each one in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Store in the freezer for up to three months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Customizing Your Elvis Presley Cake

While the classic recipe is delicious as-is, there are a few ways to tweak it to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences:

Gluten-Free Option: If you’re gluten-sensitive, you can easily substitute a gluten-free cake mix in place of the traditional white cake mix.
Vegan Version: Replace the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan cake mix. You can also substitute coconut cream for the whipped topping for a tropical twist.
Chocolate Lovers: For a chocolatey version of this cake, you can add a layer of chocolate ganache over the cream cheese frosting. Melt 1 cup of dark chocolate with ½ cup of heavy cream, then drizzle over the cake.

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic tribute to a music legend, wrapped up in layers of rich, creamy goodness. Its Southern roots make it an ideal dessert for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, but it’s also light and fruity enough to enjoy during the summer months.

The combination of crushed pineapple, cream cheese frosting, and pecans will transport your taste buds to a place of pure bliss. The cake’s light texture and tropical flavors are balanced by the richness of the cream cheese and buttery notes. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or not, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your household.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 230mg
Total Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugars: 32g
Protein: 4g

Conclusion

There’s a reason why this cake is named after the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. It’s a cake that delivers a memorable performance, just like Elvis himself. The Elvis Presley Cake is a creamy, nutty, and fruity masterpiece that is perfect for any celebration or a treat-yourself moment. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to leave your guests singing its praises.

Try making this cake for your next gathering, and watch how quickly it disappears! Enjoy a slice of history and indulge in a cake that’s fit for a king!