Introduction
Elvis Presley Cake, often referred to as Jailhouse Rock Cake or simply Elvis Cake, is a beloved Southern-style dessert that perfectly embodies indulgence, nostalgia, and comfort. This iconic cake is known for its moist yellow cake base, sweet crushed pineapple filling, and a rich cream cheese frosting topped with chopped pecans. Sweet, tangy, creamy, and utterly irresistible, Elvis Presley Cake has become a staple at potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings.
Named in honor of the King of Rock and Roll, this dessert reflects Elvis Presley’s legendary love for rich, comforting foods. Easy to make yet impressive to serve, Elvis Presley Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make the best Elvis Presley Cake at home, including expert tips, variations, storage advice, and answers to common questions.
What Is Elvis Presley Cake?
Elvis Presley Cake is a classic American poke-style cake. After baking a fluffy yellow cake, holes are poked throughout the surface, allowing a warm pineapple mixture to soak into the cake. The result is an ultra-moist texture infused with sweet tropical flavor. Once cooled, the cake is topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting and finished with crunchy pecans for contrast.
This cake is especially popular in Southern kitchens, where easy, crowd-pleasing desserts are a tradition. It’s commonly served chilled, making it refreshing as well as indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Incredibly moist and tender texture
- Perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors
- Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly steps
- Ideal for potlucks, parties, and holidays
- Can be made ahead of time
Ingredients Overview
For the Cake
- Yellow cake mix or homemade yellow cake batter
- Eggs, oil, and water (as required for the cake)
For the Pineapple Filling
- Crushed pineapple (with juice)
- Granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese, softened
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
Topping
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Prepare the yellow cake according to package or recipe instructions. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake until golden and set. Allow the cake to cool slightly.
Step 2: Add the Pineapple Layer
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake. In a saucepan, heat crushed pineapple and sugar until bubbly and slightly thickened. Pour the hot pineapple mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
Step 3: Cool Completely
Let the cake cool completely so the pineapple mixture fully absorbs and the texture sets properly.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Frost and Garnish
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired. Refrigerate before serving for best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Elvis Presley Cake
- Do not drain the pineapple; the juice is essential for moisture
- Let the cake cool fully before frosting
- Chill the cake for at least one hour before slicing
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest frosting
Variations and Flavor Twists
Banana Elvis Cake
Add sliced bananas between the pineapple layer and frosting for a nod to Elvis’s favorite flavor combination.
Coconut Elvis Cake
Sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut over the frosting for extra texture and tropical flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle Version
Finish the cake with a light drizzle of chocolate sauce for added richness.
Homemade Cake Base
Swap the boxed mix for a homemade yellow or butter cake for a from-scratch version.
Serving Suggestions
Elvis Presley Cake is best served chilled. Pair it with:
- Hot coffee or espresso
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries for balance
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors improve over time, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, but crushed canned pineapple provides the ideal texture and sweetness. If using fresh pineapple, finely crush it and add extra juice.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Elvis Presley Cake tastes even better the next day.
Can I use a different frosting?
Yes, whipped topping frosting or mascarpone frosting can be used, but cream cheese frosting is traditional.
Is Elvis Presley Cake very sweet?
It is rich and sweet, but the tanginess of pineapple and cream cheese balances the flavors.
Why This Cake Is So Popular
Elvis Presley Cake remains popular because it’s nostalgic, easy, and consistently delicious. Its moist texture and bold flavors make it stand out among classic sheet cakes, while its simple preparation keeps it accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.
Final Thoughts
Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of classic American comfort food. With its pineapple-soaked cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy pecans, every bite delivers indulgence and nostalgia. Whether you’re serving it at a party, holiday gathering, or casual family dinner, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing dessert with timeless appeal, Elvis Presley Cake deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.
Print
Elvis Presley Cake
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1½ cups (340g) mashed ripe bananas (about 3–4 medium)
- 1 cup (240ml) crushed pineapple, drained (optional but traditional)
- ½ cup (125g) creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional garnish:
- Crushed honey-roasted peanuts
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Crispy cooked bacon bits (for the true Elvis experience!)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9″ round pans or a 9×13″ pan.
- Cake: In a bowl, mash bananas. Stir in pineapple (if using) and set aside.
- In another bowl, beat butter, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy (~3 min). Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
- Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Alternate adding dry ingredients and banana mixture to wet ingredients, beginning and ending with flour. Fold in coconut if using.
- Pour into pans. Bake 25–30 min (rounds) or 35–40 min (sheet) until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whip until fluffy.
- Assemble: Frost between layers (if using rounds), then top and sides. Press garnishes onto sides or sprinkle on top.
Prep Time & Nutrition (per slice, serves 12):
- Prep Time: 25 min | Cook Time: 35 min | Total Time: 1 hr 30 min (incl. cooling)
- Calories: 620 | Net Carbs: 72g | Fats: 36g | Protein: 10g
💡 Fun Fact: Elvis reportedly loved sandwiches with banana, peanut butter, and bacon—but his aunt also baked him cakes featuring these flavors. This cake leans into that legacy with a touch of tropical sweetness!