Delicious Elvis Presley Cake Recipe

Few desserts evoke nostalgia like the iconic Elvis Presley Cake—a sweet, pineapple-infused delight named for the King of Rock and Roll’s own cravings.

This crowd-pleasing cake is as simple as it is delicious: starting with a humble boxed yellow cake, it’s drenched in tangy pineapple syrup and topped with a cloud of cream cheese frosting.

Beloved by generations, this recipe is rumored to be a favorite treat of Elvis himself, often prepared by his grandmother. Today, it remains a timeless classic that brings people together for birthdays, holidays, and every “just because” moment.

Ingredients Checklist

This recipe brings together pantry staples and tropical flair. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Cake Base

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box—typically eggs, oil, and water)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (add to the cake for richer flavor, optional)

For the Pineapple Topping

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (not syrup)

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Optional Finishing Touches

• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for topping)

• Sweetened coconut flakes

• Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Pro tip: For a more homemade touch, you can use your favorite from-scratch yellow cake recipe in place of the box mix.

Necessary Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• 9×13-inch baking pan

• Mixing bowls (at least two)

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer

• Saucepan (small or medium)

• Whisk and spatula

• Pastry brush or fork for poking holes

• Wire rack (for cooling)

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and Bake the Cake

• Preheat oven as directed on cake mix box (typically 350°F/175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch pan.

• In a large bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to box instructions, adding 1 teaspoon vanilla extract if desired.

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed, usually 28–32 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

• Remove the cake from the oven and, while still hot, poke holes all over the top with a fork or skewer—this helps the pineapple syrup soak in.

2. Make the Pineapple Syrup

• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine crushed pineapple (with juice) and granulated sugar.

• Stir and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly.

• Slowly spoon or pour the hot pineapple mixture over the hot cake, spreading evenly so it fills all the holes and covers the surface.

• Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

• In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.

• Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, beating until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).

• For an extra-tangy frosting, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest.

• Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top with a spatula.

4. Add the Finishing Touches

• Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a southern touch (optional).

• Add coconut flakes or a few maraschino cherries for extra color and festive flair.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Cream cheese and butter blend more smoothly when not cold.

• Don’t Skimp on the Pineapple: Use pineapple packed in juice, not syrup, for a tangier, fresher taste.

• Even Syrup Absorption: Poke holes across the entire cake for a consistent, moist crumb.

• Let It Rest: For best results, chill the frosted cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This allows flavors to meld and the cake to slice neatly.

• Variations: Try making it with a white or pineapple cake mix for a slightly different flavor twist. Substitute coconut extract in the frosting for a tropical vibe.

Serving Suggestions

• Slice chilled or at room temperature.

• For a true Elvis treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of sliced bananas (one of his favorite pairings).

• Garnish each slice with extra pecans, coconut, or a cherry.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The cake gets even more flavorful and moist over time.

• Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

• Make-Ahead: Bake the cake and add pineapple syrup up to a day ahead. Frost the cake the day of serving for best texture.

Final Thoughts

The Elvis Presley Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a bite of Americana—simple, a little nostalgic, and totally irresistible. With its pineapple-infused base and decadent cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to win over any crowd, just as it did with the King himself. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, you’ll find this recipe both approachable and memorable. So put on some Elvis tunes, whip up this cake, and get ready for a dessert experience fit for rock and roll royalty.