If you’ve ever wished you could savor a slice of Southern charm intertwined with tropical sweetness, then you’ll absolutely adore the Elvis Presley Pineapple Cake Recipe. This iconic cake layers moist, fluffy white cake with tangy pineapple soaked deep into every crevice, topped off by a luscious cream cheese frosting studded with crunchy pecans. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug from the South, perfect for celebrations or whenever you crave a little indulgence with a story to tell.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet key ingredients is the first step toward creating magic. Each element plays its part: the white cake mix ensures a soft, tender crumb; crushed pineapple adds vibrant juiciness; and the creamy frosting topped with pecans brings the indulgent finishing touch. It’s fuss-free but packed with flavor complexity.
- White cake mix: A convenient base that guarantees consistent texture and fluffiness every time, perfect for soaking up pineapple juices.
- Crushed pineapple (8 oz can with juice): Adds bright, natural sweetness and moisture, infusing the cake with a tropical zing.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances the tartness of pineapple and enhances caramelization in the topping.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a rich, tangy frosting with silky smooth texture that complements the pineapple.
- Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds creaminess and helps stabilize the frosting for easy spreading.
- Powdered sugar (3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting while giving it that decadent melt-in-the-mouth feel.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A hint of warmth and depth to round out all those bright flavors beautifully.
- Crushed pecans (2–3 cups): Provides a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor contrast that keeps every bite interesting.
How to Make Elvis Presley Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preparing and baking your white cake according to the box instructions, using a 9×13-inch pan for that classic sheet cake shape. Once baked, let the cake cool just enough so it’s warm to the touch but not hot—then poke holes all over the surface with a fork or skewer. This is essential because these holes will allow the pineapple topping to soak deeply into the cake, infusing every morsel with juicy flavor.
Step 2: Pineapple Topping
While the cake cools, combine the canned crushed pineapple along with its juice and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until all the sugar dissolves. The sizzling pineapple syrup will become thick and luscious, the perfect syrupy layer to pour over your cake. Spread this hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake’s hole-pocked top to let it seep into the nooks and crannies.
Step 3: Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and light. This frosting is the perfect complement to the tangy pineapple-soaked cake beneath. Lastly, gently fold in the crushed pecans for a nutty crunch that will elevate your Elvis Presley Pineapple Cake Recipe to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely and absorbed the pineapple syrup, spread the cream cheese and pecan frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or knife. Take your time here to create a smooth, inviting layer that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor
For the ultimate texture and flavor experience, refrigerate your cake before serving. Chilling allows the frosting to set, the pineapple to meld with the cake, and all those flavors to develop their full potential. Trust me, this step is worth the wait.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To add a personal touch, consider sprinkling extra crushed pecans on top just before serving for added crunch and visual appeal. A few pineapple tidbits or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also brighten the presentation, making each slice as inviting as auntie’s Sunday best.
Side Dishes
This cake shines on its own, but pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the creamy and tropical flavors beautifully. For a more indulgent Southern treat, a cup of strong coffee or sweet iced tea by its side is simply perfect.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests at a party? Consider cutting the pineapple cake into small squares and serving them on pretty dessert plates with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. Alternatively, layering slices with extra pineapple and pecans on a tiered dessert tray can create a show-stopping centerpiece that sparks conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only preserves the freshness but also maintains the rich creamy texture of the frosting and the moisture from the pineapple topping, keeping every bite as delightful as the first.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Elvis Presley Pineapple Cake Recipe later, it freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this is a moist, frosted cake, reheating is not usually necessary or recommended. However, if you prefer slightly warmed cake, remove the frosting or enjoy just the cake portion briefly warmed in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Otherwise, this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Fresh pineapple can be used, but be sure to chop it finely and include enough juice or add a bit of extra sugar to mimic the sweetness and moisture of the canned version. Canned crushed pineapple is preferred because it’s consistent and designed to keep the cake moist.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
Yes! Many brands offer gluten-free white cake mixes, and swapping the standard mix for one of those brands is an easy substitution. Just follow the package directions and keep the same steps for the pineapple and frosting.
Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cream cheese frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading to make it fluffy again.
How long does the Elvis Presley Pineapple Cake stay fresh?
When kept refrigerated properly, this cake stays fresh and moist for about 3 to 4 days. After that, the texture may start to change and frosting can become less appealing.
What kind of pecans work best for this recipe?
Fresh, raw pecans are best for crushing and mixing into the frosting. Toasting them lightly first can deepen their flavor, but be careful not to over-toast as that might overpower the delicate balance of flavors in the cake.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking the Elvis Presley Pineapple Cake Recipe from scratch or with simple ingredients that come together so elegantly. It’s not only a nostalgic treat but a wonderful way to share a bit of Southern comfort and some rock ‘n’ roll history with your loved ones. Don’t wait for a special occasion—grab your ingredients, bake a cake, and enjoy a slice of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
