Elvis Presley Cake
Elvis Presley Cake is a retro Southern classic that’s rich, fruity, creamy, and completely unforgettable.

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Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the cake mix according to package directions using the required water, oil, and eggs.
- Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake according to box instructions, usually 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top using a fork or wooden spoon handle.
- Spread the entire can of crushed pineapple (with juice) evenly over the warm cake. The pineapple will soak into the cake, making it incredibly moist.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and blend well.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Elvis Presley Cake is a retro Southern classic that’s rich, fruity, creamy, and completely unforgettable. This Elvis Presley Cake starts with a moist pineapple cake base soaked in sweet crushed pineapple, then gets topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and crunchy pecans. It’s the kind of dessert that feels nostalgic and indulgent all at once. I’m so grateful you’re here because sharing these timeless, crowd-pleasing recipes truly brings me so much joy!
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Why You’ll Love This Elvis Presley Cake
This cake is incredibly moist, easy to make, and packed with tropical flavor.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Starts with a cake mix for easy prep
- Ultra-moist texture
- Creamy, dreamy frosting
- Perfect for potlucks and holidays
- Even better the next day
What Does Elvis Presley Cake Taste Like?
It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and bursting with pineapple flavor. The cake itself is soft and moist thanks to the crushed pineapple, and the cream cheese frosting adds that perfect tangy richness. The toasted pecans give it a satisfying crunch. And when this cake chills and the flavors meld together? Absolutely irresistible!!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Make-ahead friendly
- Feeds a crowd
- Beginner-friendly
- Southern classic appeal
Ingredients for Elvis Presley Cake
Here’s everything you’ll need.
For the Cake
- 1 box Duncan Hines Signature Pineapple Supreme Moist Cake Mix (or white or yellow cake mix)
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually water, oil, and eggs)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in 100% juice (do not drain)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Toothpick
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
I promised versatile—and here’s proof!
- Add coconut: Stir ½ cup shredded coconut into the cake batter.
- Make it extra tropical: Add ½ teaspoon coconut extract to frosting.
- Nut-free version: Omit pecans.
- Lighter frosting: Use whipped cream cheese.
- Homemade cake option: Substitute your favorite scratch pineapple cake recipe.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake Step by Step
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the cake mix according to package directions using the required water, oil, and eggs.
Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
Bake according to box instructions, usually 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Add the Pineapple Topping
While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top using a fork or wooden spoon handle.
Spread the entire can of crushed pineapple (with juice) evenly over the warm cake. The pineapple will soak into the cake, making it incredibly moist.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and blend well.
Fold in chopped pecans.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
What to Serve with Elvis Presley Cake
This rich cake pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Iced coffee
- Sweet tea
- Vanilla ice cream
It’s perfect for potlucks, birthdays, and family gatherings.
Storage Instructions
Store Elvis Presley Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is recommended.
You can freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
General Information About Elvis Presley Cake
This cake became popular in the South and is often associated with potluck dinners and church gatherings. While it’s unclear if Elvis himself requested this exact recipe, the name reflects his well-known love for rich, indulgent desserts.
It’s sweet, comforting, and wonderfully nostalgic—anything but boring!!
Conclusion
Elvis Presley Cake is moist, creamy, fruity, and absolutely unforgettable. With its pineapple-soaked cake and luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s the kind of dessert that disappears quickly at any gathering. Easy to make and even easier to love, this Southern classic deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.
If you enjoy fruit-forward desserts, you might also love Peach Dump Cake, Peach Cobbler, or Fresh Peach Cream Cake for another sweet treat that brings everyone to the table.
I’d love to hear how your Elvis Presley Cake turns out. Leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest—it truly makes my day seeing your delicious creations!
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 340mg
Tips for Success
- Do not drain the pineapple. The juice keeps the cake moist.
- Frost only when fully cooled to prevent melting.
- Chill before slicing for clean cuts.
- Toast pecans lightly for deeper flavor.
- Make it a day ahead—it tastes even better!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Canned crushed pineapple works best for moisture and consistency.
Why is my cake soggy?
It may need more cooling time to set after adding pineapple.
Can I make cupcakes instead?
Yes! Adjust baking time to 18–22 minutes.
Do I have to refrigerate it?
Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce powdered sugar in the frosting, but texture may change.
