Introduction
Step into the world of Southern baking with this legendary Elvis Presley Cake—a moist, pineapple-infused dessert topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Named after the iconic King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself, this cake is rich, indulgent, and unforgettable, just like Elvis’s music.
Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just because, this cake is easy to make yet impressive, with a tender crumb and a tangy-sweet frosting that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Elvis Presley Cake
Ultra-Moist & Flavorful – Pineapple keeps it tender, while pecans add crunch.
Cream Cheese Frosting Heaven – The perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients with minimal fuss.
Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Step-by-Step Elvis Presley Cake Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (undrained)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Extra chopped pecans
- Maraschino cherries
Step 2: Make the Cake
Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and crushed pineapple (with juice).
- Beat for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Fold in chopped pecans (if using).
Bake
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat Cream Cheese & Butter
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add Sugar & Flavor
- Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until creamy.
Frost & Garnish
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle with toasted coconut, pecans, or cherries for extra flair.
Tips for the Best Elvis Presley Cake
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth batter and frosting.
Don’t Overbake – The cake should be moist; check a few minutes early.
Toast the Pecans – Enhances their nutty flavor.
Chill Before Serving – The frosting sets better when cold.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Adding Pineapple Juice Separately – Use the whole can (juice included).
Frosting a Warm Cake – Causes the frosting to melt.
Overmixing the Batter – Can make the cake dense.
FAQs About Elvis Presley Cake
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?
A: Yes, but chop finely and add ½ cup pineapple juice for moisture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a GF yellow cake mix and check other labels.
Q: Why is it called Elvis Presley Cake?
A: Legend says it was one of Elvis’s favorite desserts—though no one knows for sure!
Conclusion
This Elvis Presley Cake is a Southern classic that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its pineapple-infused crumb and creamy frosting, it’s a dessert worthy of The King himself.
Print
Elvis Presley Cake: A Southern Classic Fit for The King
- Total Time: 30 mins
Description
Experience the legendary taste of the Elvis Presley Cake, but with a lighter twist! This moist and flavorful cake combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the creamy goodness of bananas, creating a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix (preferably with no added sugar)
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
3 large egg whites
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
1 package (8 oz) light cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, crushed pineapple with juice, mashed bananas, egg whites, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the light cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until well blended. Stir in the vanilla extract and drained crushed pineapple.
Once the cake is done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
Notes
This lighter version of the Elvis Presley Cake retains all the delicious flavors of the original but with fewer calories. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy a slice of this legendary treat!
