Irresistible Elvis Presley Cake (5-Step Classic)

There’s something undeniably magical about the Elvis Presley Cake. Maybe it’s the tropical zing of pineapple, the creamy dream of rich frosting, or maybe it’s just the fact that it tastes like a love song you can eat. If you’ve never met a dessert that made your hips shake a little, get ready. This Jailhouse Rock Cake is a down-home, Southern-inspired treasure that would make The King proud—because if anyone knew how to indulge, it was Elvis.

I first tried this cake at a church potluck when I was newly married and still learning that “bringing something” didn’t mean chips and dip. One bite in, and I was humming “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” It’s the kind of dessert that sneaks up on you—simple, sweet, and secretly sensational. And y’all, it’s so easy. White cake mix, canned pineapple, and a cream cheese frosting that could bring a grown woman to tears.

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Why You’ll Love This Elvis Presley Cake

• No-fuss and fabulous – Starts with boxed cake mix but tastes like Grandma’s best.
• Southern comfort in every bite – The pineapple topping is tangy-sweet perfection.
• That frosting though – Creamy, nutty, slightly decadent—like a velvet jumpsuit for your cake.
• Feeds a crowd – Great for potlucks, parties, or quiet evenings with just you and your fork.
• Kid-friendly, but adult-approved – A true crowd-pleaser.

PIN IT OR SAVE IT

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Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1 box White Cake Mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
• 8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (with juice)
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• ½ tsp Vanilla Extract

For the frosting:

• 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
• ½ cup Butter, softened
• 3 cups Powdered Sugar
• ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
• 2–3 cups Crushed Pecans (start with 2, save some for garnish if desired)

If you’re new to baking with boxed cake mixes, check out this helpful guide on how to upgrade a box mix cake from Allrecipes (DoFollow link).

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Instructions

1. Bake the Cake:
Prepare the white cake according to the package directions in a 9×13 pan. Bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes, then poke holes all over the surface with the end of a wooden spoon (or a chopstick if you’re in a pinch!).

2. Pineapple Magic:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the crushed pineapple (juice included), sugar, and vanilla. Bring it to a gentle boil for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour this warm pineapple mixture evenly over the poked cake, letting it soak in like a sponge at Graceland.

3. Make the Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Slowly add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla and crushed pecans. Spread this over the cooled, pineapple-topped cake.

4. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra pecans if you’re feeling fancy.

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Melania’s Tips for Perfect Elvis Presley Cake

• Don’t skip the poking. The holes are key to letting that pineapple soak in. This is a poke cake, not a polite one.
• Let the pineapple mixture cool just a smidge before pouring—it should still be warm but not scalding.
• Use room temp cream cheese and butter. Cold ingredients = lumpy frosting = sadness.

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Bake It With the Littles

This cake is perfect for tiny helpers:

• Kids love poking holes in the cake (controlled destruction = win).
• Let them help pour the pineapple mixture (with supervision).
• Little hands can sprinkle pecans on top like confetti.

Bonus: It’s forgiving if someone “accidentally” eats a corner.

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Meal-Prep Magic

• Make ahead: Bake the full cake a day in advance. The flavors deepen overnight!
• Store it: Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days. The frosting sets beautifully.
• Freeze it: Freeze individual slices in airtight containers—just thaw and serve chilled or at room temp.

For more freezable treats, you might love these cinnamon-sugar banana cookies.

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Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

• Use light cream cheese and Greek yogurt butter.
• Swap in Swerve or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar option.
• Add crushed walnuts instead of pecans for a little omega-3 kick.

Need help choosing sugar substitutes? Here’s a trusted comparison of sugar alternatives from EatingWell

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Leftover Remix

Turn that last lonely piece into something new:

• Cake Parfaits: Layer chunks of cake with whipped cream and berries.
• Breakfast Bombshell: Warm it slightly and serve with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
• Cake Truffles: Mix crumbled cake with cream cheese, roll into balls, and dip in chocolate.

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Gift It Like a Pro

• Bake in a disposable foil pan, cover with a festive tea towel, and tie with baker’s twine.
• Add a handwritten note: “This cake rocked my world—I hope it rocks yours too!”
• Great for birthdays, housewarmings, or just because.

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FAQs

Can I use yellow cake mix instead of white?
Yes! It’ll be a little richer, but still delish.

Can I leave out the pecans?
Sure can. Or try coconut flakes for a tropical twist.

Does it need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting. But that chill really makes the flavors pop!

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely—just sub in your favorite gluten-free white cake mix.

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Final Thought

This Elvis Presley Cake isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience. Sweet, a little nostalgic, and oh-so-satisfying, it hits all the right notes. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a bake sale, or just a Tuesday night, this Jailhouse Rock Cake brings the house down every time. Thank ya, thank ya very much—for bringing dessert.

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