If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is unforgettable, the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This luscious cake blends moist white cake infused with pineapple juice, rich cream cheese frosting, and a generous layer of crunchy pecans that deliver delightful texture and flavor. Every bite pays homage to the King’s famous taste for sweet, nutty, and tropical goodness, making it a showstopper for family gatherings or whenever you want to treat yourself to a slice of cake heaven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Elvis Presley Cake Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a key role in building that perfect balance of moistness, sweetness, and crunch. From the tangy pineapple to the creamy frosting and nutty topping, every item brings something special.
- White cake mix: The base of our cake, bringing fluffy texture and a mild sweetness that won’t overpower other flavors.
- Crushed pineapple (with juice): Adds natural moisture and a subtle fruity tang that keeps the cake beautifully moist.
- Granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps balance the tang from the pineapple and cream cheese.
- Vanilla extract (for pineapple mixture): Infuses a warm aroma and depth of flavor into the cake batter.
- Cream cheese (softened): Creates a rich, creamy frosting with the perfect tangy finish that complements the cake’s sweetness.
- Butter (softened): Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting for a dreamy texture.
- Powdered sugar: Delivers sweetness and the right consistency to the frosting for easy spreading.
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the flavor of the frosting with a subtle vanilla note.
- Crushed pecans: Provides that signature crunch and nutty flavor that makes Elvis Presley Cake Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven and greasing your baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix with the crushed pineapple and its juice, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients together will make a batter that’s bursting with tropical flavor and promises incredible moistness thanks to the pineapple’s juices.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake according to the cake mix instructions, usually around 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma from the baking cake alone will have you excited for the next step!
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, whip together softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. This frosting perfectly balances tang and sweetness to complement every bite.
Step 4: Frost and Finish with Pecans
Once the cake is completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Immediately sprinkle the crushed pecans over the frosting to ensure they stick and add that iconic crunch Elvis would have loved. Let the cake chill slightly to set the frosting before serving.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an eye-catching finish, add a few whole pecans or pineapple slices atop the cake. Sprinkling a tiny pinch of toasted coconut flakes can also elevate the tropical vibe without stealing the spotlight from the cake itself.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A cup of strong coffee or sweet iced tea also make excellent accompaniments to round out a delightful dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe as individual mini trifle cups layered with crushed cake, frosting, and pecans. This not only looks stunning but turns each serving into a personalized treat that showcases all the recipe’s textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps keep the frosting fresh and the pecans crunchy for up to 4 days—though let’s be honest, it probably won’t last that long!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake without the pecans on top. Wrap it tightly in plastic and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh crushed pecans on top.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you prefer a softer frosting, letting it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving will do the trick perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake instead of the box mix?
Absolutely! Homemade white cake works wonderfully here; just be sure it’s moist and flavorful, as the pineapple mixture enhances the moisture in this recipe uniquely.
What can I substitute for crushed pecans if I have allergies?
You can use chopped walnuts, almonds, or even toasted coconut flakes for that crunch element. Each will add a slightly different texture and flavor but keeps the spirit of the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe alive.
Is this recipe very sweet?
The sweetness is well balanced by the tang of the cream cheese frosting and pineapple. It’s rich and satisfying without being overwhelmingly sugary.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free white cake mix, and double-check all other ingredients to be certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
How long does it take to prepare and bake this cake?
The total time is about one hour, including baking and cooling. It’s a relatively quick dessert to pull together with a big payoff.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about the Elvis Presley Cake Recipe that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. It brings together texture, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you crave something extraordinary, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and share it with friends. Get ready to taste one of the most memorable cakes you’ll ever make!
Print
Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Elvis Presley Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert inspired by the King himself, combining sweet pineapple-infused white cake with a creamy cream cheese frosting and a crunchy pecan topping. Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, this cake boasts a delightful balance of tropical fruitiness and rich, nutty texture.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- 8 oz can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups crushed pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, crushed pineapple with its juice, granulated sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until well combined and the batter is smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy. Stir in the ½ tsp vanilla extract for flavor.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle the crushed pecans generously over the frosting to cover the surface.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 servings and enjoy the rich, sweet combination inspired by Elvis Presley’s favorite flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
- For extra moisture, you may drizzle some pineapple juice over the cake before frosting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
