Name: Elvis Presley Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 box White Cake Mix (Use your favorite brand.); 8 oz Crushed Pineapple (With juice.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (For pineapple mixture.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened.); 1/2 cup Butter (Softened.); 3 cups Powdered Sugar; 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (For frosting.); 3 cups Crushed Pecans

Jump to Recipe

Have you ever craved a dessert that’s truly legendary—both in taste and origin? Enter the Elvis Presley Cake, the ultimate creamy, sweet, and nostalgic treat designed to steal the show at any gathering. This retro-inspired sheet cake is every bit as charming as the King of Rock and Roll himself. With a tender base, juicy pineapple, and a luscious cream cheese frosting loaded with pecans, it’s easy to see why this recipe has remained a cherished favorite across generations.

What makes it even more appealing is just how simple and budget-friendly it is—no tricky steps, no long prep times, and only a few pantry staples. If you’ve enjoyed my classic Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, you’ll adore the balanced flavors and fun backstory of this one. Ready to discover why this cake is always a hit? Read on, and let’s bake like a rock star!

What is Elvis Presley Cake ?

You might be wondering—did Elvis Presley really spend his days munching on this dreamy cake? Well, who could say no to layers of moist white cake, sweet pineapple, and velvety cream cheese? Legend has it that this delicious sheet cake was a favorite of the King himself (because, let’s be honest, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!). Maybe it was served on one of his birthdays or became a staple at Graceland. Who knows? But what’s for sure is that it’s become a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert anyone would love at their table. Dive in, try a slice, and see why this memorable cake deserves a spot in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This :

The star of this recipe is its irresistible combination of flavors: moist white cake soaked with sweet, tangy pineapple and finished with a rich, nutty cream cheese frosting. Making this cake at home saves you money compared to buying a fancy bakery version—and you get to control the ingredients for that homemade touch! Plus, it’s topped with a generous sprinkling of crushed pecans, adding a pleasant crunch that pairs perfectly with its creamy layers.

If you’re a fan of my popular Southern Hummingbird Cake, you’ll appreciate the tropical notes and unbeatable convenience of the Elvis Presley Cake. With simple, accessible ingredients and easy steps, this cake delivers maximum taste with minimum fuss. Don’t wait—treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this retro classic tonight!

How to Make :

Quick Overview

Making the Elvis Presley Cake is a breeze—even for baking beginners. Its simple process means you’ll go from mixing to enjoying in under an hour, with a heavenly aroma filling your kitchen. The real showstopper is the dreamy combination of pineapple-soaked cake and the cream cheese pecan frosting, which sets this dessert apart. Expect a baking time of around 30 minutes plus a bit of cooling and frosting, making it ideal for weeknight desserts, potlucks, or festive occasions.

Ingredients

1 box White Cake Mix (use your favorite brand)
8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (with juice)
1 cup Granulated Sugar
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for pineapple mixture)
8 oz package Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 cup Butter, softened
3 cups Powdered Sugar
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for frosting)
3 cups Crushed Pecans

Step-by-Step Directions

Bake the Cake:
Prepare the white cake according to package directions, using a 9×13 inch cake pan or your preferred shape. Bake in a preheated oven as the box instructs. Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
Poke and Pineapple Mixture:
Once the cake is slightly cooled but still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to gently poke holes all over the surface, spacing them about 1-inch apart.
Prepare the Pineapple Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine the entire can of crushed pineapple (juice included), 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Stir together over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, letting it bubble for about 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Soak the Cake:
Carefully pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, making sure the syrup soaks down into the holes. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. Once fully combined and fluffy, stir in 2 cups of the crushed pecans, reserving the rest for garnishing.
Frost and Decorate:
Evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake. Sprinkle the remaining cup of crushed pecans generously across the top.
Chill and Serve:
Once frosted, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the frosting set. Slice and serve chilled for best texture and flavor!

What to Serve With:

This cake shines as the star of any dessert table, but why not make your whole meal unforgettable? Pair it with a light, citrusy fruit salad or a cold glass of sweet iced tea for a refreshing contrast. For special occasions, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a bold cup of strong coffee. Looking for something savory? Try my popular Southern Fried Chicken or Honey Butter Cornbread as your main meal—Elvis would certainly approve of a hearty, homey spread!

Top Tips for Perfecting :

Ingredient Swaps: No pecans on hand? Chopped walnuts or toasted coconut make excellent substitutions for a cozy twist.
Cooling is Key: Let the pineapple mixture soak into the still-warm cake, but always cool it completely before adding the frosting to avoid melting.
Consistent Holes: Use the same-sized tool (like the end of a wooden spoon) to poke holes evenly so the pineapple syrup seeps throughout.
Make Ahead: This cake actually tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for prepping ahead for parties.
Mix It Up: For a fun variation, add a handful of fresh berries or a dash of cinnamon to the frosting for extra flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Store leftover Elvis Presley Cake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days—the flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making those next-day slices even more delectable. If you’d like to save it for future celebrations, wrap individual pieces well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy chilled or at room temperature. For best results, avoid microwaving, as the frosting can become too soft; instead, let it sit out for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Elvis Presley Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually improves in flavor after a day in the fridge, making it great for advance prep.

Can I use yellow cake mix instead of white?
Yes, yellow cake mix works perfectly if that’s all you have on hand. The pineapple and frosting pair beautifully with both.

Do I have to add nuts?
No, feel free to omit the pecans for a nut-free version. The cake will still be delicious and moist.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can, but canned pineapple with juice is best for that classic texture and flavor.

How do I keep the cake from getting soggy?
Let the pineapple mixture cool a bit and don’t over-pour in one spot. Chilling the cake after assembly also helps set the layers.

Conclusion

The Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of timeless flavors and easy, crowd-pleasing baking. With minimal steps and maximum taste, you’ll love how this retro treat brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday, holiday, or just a simple weeknight supper, its sweet, fruity, and creamy layers will have everyone singing your praises. Give this recipe a try and add a little rock and roll magic to your kitchen—you’ll be glad you did!