Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe

Flavor-Packed Elvis Presley Cake Recipe: A Rockin’ Jailhouse Treat

Whip up a slice of musical nostalgia with this delectable elvis presley cake that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Sweet memories of rock ‘n’ roll swirl through each moist, decadent bite.

Creamy layers packed with tropical flavors capture the essence of the king’s legendary style.

Southern charm meets culinary creativity in this playful dessert tribute.

Pineapple, cream cheese, and banana create a harmonious melody of textures and tastes.

Crumbs of this cake might just make you want to put on blue suede shoes and shimmy.

Let’s rock this classic recipe and transport you straight to graceland’s kitchen!

Why Elvis Presley Cake Is A Classic

  • Rock the Baking: Perfect for novice bakers with simple package cake mix instructions that guarantee delicious results every single time.
  • Flavor Explosion: Combines creamy cream cheese, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans creating a mouthwatering dessert that surprises taste buds with incredible texture and depth.
  • Musical Memory Maker: Inspired by Elvis Presley's iconic music, this cake brings nostalgic vibes and turns any gathering into a fun celebration with its playful name and delectable layers.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Versatile treat suitable for potlucks, family dinners, birthday parties, and casual get-togethers where everyone craves a slice of something special.

Ingredients For Elvis Presley Cake

Cake Base:
  • White Cake Mix: Soft and fluffy base for this classic dessert.
Wet Ingredients for Pineapple Layer:
  • Crushed Pineapple: Juicy fruit that adds moisture and sweetness.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweet component for pineapple mixture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Warm and fragrant flavor enhancer.
Frosting Components:
  • Cream Cheese: Smooth and tangy base for creamy topping.
  • Butter: Rich and creamy ingredient for smooth frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweet and smooth ingredient for frosting texture.
Nuts and Garnish:
  • Pecans: Crunchy, rich nuts that add texture and nutty flavor.

How To Make Elvis Presley Cake

Step 1: Bake the Base

Whip up a white cake using your favorite boxed mix.

Follow the package instructions for mixing and baking.

Once golden and fragrant, let the cake cool completely.

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, create a constellation of holes across the cake’s surface.

Step 2: Create Pineapple Magic

Grab a saucepan and combine these tropical ingredients:
  • Crushed pineapple (with all its juicy goodness)
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally.

Watch as the ingredients transform into a sweet, bubbling symphony.

Carefully pour the hot pineapple mixture over the cooled cake, making sure it seeps into every single hole.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Frosting

In a mixing bowl, create a cloud-like frosting by:
  • Beating cream cheese and butter until silky smooth
  • Gradually mixing in powdered sugar
  • Adding vanilla extract
  • Folding in crushed pecans

Spread this decadent frosting generously over the pineapple-soaked cake, creating a luscious blanket of sweetness.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch

Sprinkle the remaining crushed pecans over the top, creating a crunchy crown for your cake.

Step 5: Let the Flavors Dance

Tuck the cake into the refrigerator and let it rest overnight.

This magical waiting period allows all the flavors to mingle and develop a depth that’ll make your taste buds sing.

After at least 6 hours, your Jailhouse Rock Cake is ready to steal the show!

Helpful Tips For Elvis Presley Cake

  • Use the end of a wooden spoon to create deep, even holes throughout the cake, ensuring the pineapple mixture penetrates every layer for maximum flavor absorption.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the pineapple mixture to maintain the cake's structural integrity and prevent a mushy texture.
  • Let cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free frosting consistency.
  • Swap pecans with toasted walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor profile, or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version of the cake.
  • Refrigerate the cake overnight to allow the pineapple and cream cheese frosting to meld together, creating a more intense and harmonious taste experience.

Storing And Reheating Elvis Presley Cake

  • Store the Elvis Presley Cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its moisture and delicious flavor.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months, preserving its creamy texture and taste.
  • Remove the cake from the freezer and let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight, ensuring the cream cheese frosting remains smooth and consistent.
  • Bring the cake to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to reawaken and the texture to soften delightfully.

What To Serve With Elvis Presley Cake

  • Sip Smooth Southern Bourbon: Pair this rich Elvis Presley Cake with a smooth Kentucky bourbon like Woodford Reserve, which complements the cake's sweet pineapple and nutty pecan notes.
  • Create Creamy Vanilla Milkshake: Blend a classic vanilla milkshake to enhance the cake's creamy texture, providing a cool and nostalgic companion that highlights the dessert's sweet profile.
  • Match Caramel Macchiato: Serve a warm caramel macchiato alongside the cake, letting the espresso's deep flavors contrast with the cake's sweetness while the caramel echoes the dessert's rich undertones.
  • Enjoy Tropical Rum Punch: Mix a light rum punch with pineapple juice to mirror the cake's fruity elements, creating a playful island-inspired beverage that celebrates the cake's tropical ingredients.

Flavor Twists On Elvis Presley Cake

  • Gluten-Free Jailhouse Rock Cake: Replace white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring the same moist texture and flavor profile for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Tropical Banana Variation: Substitute pineapple with mashed ripe bananas, adding a classic Elvis Presley flavor that complements the cream cheese frosting and pecans.
  • Dairy-Free Friendly Version: Use coconut cream cheese alternative and plant-based butter to create a lactose-free cake that maintains the original's rich taste and creamy texture.
  • Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with toasted sunflower seeds or omit nuts completely, keeping the cake's core flavors intact while accommodating nut allergies.

FAQs

  • Why is it called the Elvis Presley Cake?

The cake is named after Elvis Presley because he loved desserts with pineapple and pecans, and this recipe captures those flavor combinations he enjoyed.

  • Are pecans necessary for this recipe?

Pecans are a key ingredient that adds crunch and rich flavor, but you can substitute with walnuts if needed, though it will slightly change the traditional taste.

  • How do the holes in the cake help with flavor?

Poking holes allows the pineapple mixture to penetrate deep into the cake, ensuring every bite is moist and infused with sweet, tangy pineapple flavor.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually improves when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to blend and creating an even more delicious dessert for serving the next day.

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Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe

Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe


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4.5 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet memories of Memphis collide with classic Southern baking in this Elvis Presley cake, packed with nostalgic banana and pineapple flavors. Creamy cream cheese frosting and nutty pecans crown this rock ‘n’ roll dessert, inviting you to savor a slice of culinary music history.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 White Cake Mix
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) Crushed Pineapple (with juice)
  • 3 cups Crushed Pecans

Cake Mixture Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for pineapple mixture)

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup Butter, softened
  • 3 cups Powdered Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Craft the white cake according to package guidelines using your preferred baking vessel, ensuring even golden coloration.
  2. After removing from oven, allow cake to cool completely, then systematically perforate the surface using a wooden spoon handle, creating multiple penetration points.
  3. Construct a luxurious pineapple infusion by combining crushed pineapple, sugar, and vanilla in a saucepan, rapidly bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil while stirring intermittently.
  4. Cascade the scorching pineapple blend across the perforated cake surface, guaranteeing thorough penetration into every created crevice.
  5. Whip softened cream cheese and butter into a silky smooth consistency, gradually incorporating powdered sugar and vanilla until achieving a luscious frosting texture.
  6. Fold most of the crushed pecans into the cream cheese mixture, reserving some for decorative topping.
  7. Lavishly spread the pecan-studded frosting across the pineapple-infused cake, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
  8. Artfully sprinkle remaining pecans over the frosted surface for an elegant, textural finish.
  9. Refrigerate the cake overnight or minimally 6 hours, allowing flavors to harmonize and intensify, transforming this dessert into a true culinary masterpiece.

Notes

  • Precision matters when poking holes in the cake, ensuring even distribution allows the pineapple mixture to seep deeply and create a moist, flavorful texture.
  • Select room temperature cream cheese and butter for the frosting to achieve a smoother, lump-free consistency that spreads effortlessly.
  • Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch, elevating the cake’s overall taste profile.
  • Consider using gluten-free cake mix and checking ingredient labels for those with dietary restrictions, making this classic dessert more inclusive.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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