Name: Elvis Presley Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water; 1 can crushed pineapple with juice (20 oz); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 oz); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)

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Elvis Presley Cake is a rich and nostalgic dessert that’s as bold and unforgettable as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself. It starts with a simple yellow cake base that’s soaked in crushed pineapple, then topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting made with cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar. It’s sweet, moist, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this cake because it’s incredibly easy to make and always gets rave reviews. The crushed pineapple adds so much moisture and fruity goodness that transforms a basic cake mix into something truly special. The tangy cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, family gatherings, or any time I want to bring a little rock-and-roll charm to the dessert table.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Yellow cake mix
Eggs
Vegetable oil
Water
Crushed pineapple (with juice)
Granulated sugar
Cream cheese, softened
Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)

Directions

I preheat the oven according to the cake mix instructions and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.
I prepare the yellow cake mix using the eggs, water, and oil as directed on the box, then pour the batter into the baking dish and bake until golden and cooked through.
While the cake is still warm, I poke small holes all over the top using a fork or skewer.
I pour the crushed pineapple with its juice evenly over the warm cake, then sprinkle granulated sugar on top. I let it soak in and cool completely.
In a separate bowl, I beat together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Once the cake is cool, I spread the frosting evenly over the top.
For extra crunch and flavor, I sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting.
I chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let all the flavors come together.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one 9×13-inch cake, which serves about 12 to 15 people. Prep time is about 15 minutes, baking takes around 30 minutes, and I chill it for at least 1 hour before serving, so total time is around 1 hour and 45 minutes including chilling.

Variations

Tropical version: I add shredded coconut along with the pineapple for an extra island vibe.
Nut-free option: I skip the nuts entirely for those who prefer a smoother topping.
Homemade cake: Sometimes I make the yellow cake from scratch when I have more time.
Frosting twist: I add a splash of lemon juice to the frosting for a little zing.
Layered look: I bake the cake in two round pans and turn it into a layered showstopper.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It tastes even better the next day once the pineapple has had more time to soak in. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture of the pineapple and frosting can change. This cake is served chilled, so no reheating is needed.

FAQs

Why is it called Elvis Presley Cake?

This cake is believed to have been a favorite of Elvis Presley, especially because of his love for Southern and pineapple-based desserts.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

I prefer canned crushed pineapple with juice for this recipe because it blends and soaks into the cake more easily. Fresh pineapple doesn’t have the same juicy texture.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. It actually tastes better after it sits in the fridge overnight.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Sure. I’ve tried it with white and butter cake mixes too, but yellow cake keeps that classic taste.

Do I need to poke holes in the cake?

Yes, poking holes helps the pineapple and juice soak deep into the cake, making it super moist and flavorful.

Conclusion

Elvis Presley Cake is a deliciously moist, fruity, and creamy dessert that’s easy to make and impossible to forget. Whether I’m bringing it to a gathering or just treating myself, it’s one of those feel-good recipes that always hits the right note. With its simple ingredients and big flavor, this cake truly lives up to its legendary name.