Elvis Presley Cake

Introduction

The Elvis Presley Cake is a sweet tribute to the King of Rock ’n’ Roll himself. Famous for his love of indulgent foods, Elvis was particularly fond of pineapple and rich desserts, and this cake embodies that spirit. It’s a moist, fruity sheet cake layered with crushed pineapple, creamy topping, and pecans, creating a dessert that is both simple and show-stopping.

This cake is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve something flavorful yet easy to prepare.

History

The origins of Elvis Presley Cake date back to the 1970s in the American South, when it was said to have been served at parties honoring the King. While Elvis is famously remembered for his peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwiches, this cake has become associated with his legacy because of its richness and Southern flair. It quickly became a staple at gatherings across Tennessee and beyond, celebrated as a cake “fit for a king.”

Ingredients

For the Cake Base:

1 box yellow cake mix (or 2 ½ cups homemade yellow cake batter)
4 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
½ cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Pineapple Layer:

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
1 cup granulated sugar

For the Frosting:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)

Benefits

Fruity freshness: Pineapple adds vitamin C and a natural sweetness.
Protein-rich frosting: Cream cheese provides calcium and protein.
Mood booster: Sweet, moist cake has been linked to feelings of comfort and joy.
Easy to prepare: Uses simple pantry ingredients while giving a gourmet result.

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla.
Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple Layer

While cake is baking, combine crushed pineapple (with juice) and sugar in a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake Base and Pineapple Layer

While the cake is still hot, poke holes across the surface with a fork or skewer.
Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake.
Allow the cake to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

Beat softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Spread cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pineapple layer.
Sprinkle with chopped pecans.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.

Formation Tips

For extra richness: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the pineapple mixture.
For presentation: Use toasted pecans for crunch and garnish with pineapple chunks.
Layer variation: Bake two round cakes, layer with pineapple mixture between, and frost for a tiered version.
For lovers of Elvis’ flavors: Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of banana slices when serving.

Conclusion

The Elvis Presley Cake is a true Southern gem—moist, fruity, creamy, and nutty, perfectly balancing richness with freshness. It’s a dessert that brings smiles to gatherings and pays homage to Elvis’s legendary appetite for indulgent, flavorful foods.

For the Lovers of This Cake

If you adore decadent desserts, this cake will steal your heart. Its fruity sweetness, creamy frosting, and nutty crunch make it a dessert lovers can’t resist. Much like Elvis’s music, this cake has timeless appeal—it’s soulful, comforting, and unforgettable.