Elvis Presley Cake Magic

This moist, indulgent Elvis Presley Cake brings together sweet pineapple, fluffy cake, and creamy frosting in a dessert fit for The King himself. The combination of warm pineapple soaking into yellow cake topped with cream cheese frosting creates a dessert that's impossible to resist and perfect for gatherings.

I first made this for my father-in-law's birthday since he's a huge Elvis fan, and it's become our most requested dessert for every family celebration. The way the warm pineapple soaks into the cake creates magic that even non-pineapple lovers appreciate.

Ingredients

• Yellow cake mix: this provides the perfect base and saves time while still delivering homemade flavor
• Eggs, oil, and water: these are the standard cake mix additions that create the proper texture
• Crushed pineapple in juice: the star ingredient that adds moisture and tropical flavor avoid heavy syrup which would make it too sweet
• Granulated sugar: balances the tartness of the pineapple and creates the perfect syrup
• Cream cheese: the secret to that tangy, rich frosting choose full-fat for best results
• Butter: adds richness to the frosting and helps achieve the perfect spreadable consistency
• Powdered sugar: creates smooth, lump-free frosting that sets beautifully
• Chopped pecans: add wonderful texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cake:

Mix the yellow cake according to package directions for a 9x13 inch pan. Make sure to follow the exact measurements for eggs, oil and water on the box for perfect texture. Bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, usually around 25-30 minutes depending on your oven.

Create the Pineapple Mixture:

While the cake bakes, combine the crushed pineapple with its juice and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble slightly. The constant stirring prevents scorching and ensures even sweetness throughout.

Infuse the Cake:

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface, about half an inch apart. While the cake is still hot, pour the warm pineapple mixture over it, ensuring even coverage across the entire cake. The heat from both components allows the pineapple to soak deeply into the cake, creating those moist pockets of flavor.

Cool Completely:

Allow the cake to cool to room temperature, about 1-2 hours. This cooling period is crucial as it allows the pineapple mixture to fully penetrate the cake and for the flavors to meld together. Attempting to frost too soon will result in a melted, messy frosting.

Prepare the Frosting:

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together for a full two minutes until completely smooth and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar gradually, about a half cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual approach prevents a powdery mess and ensures a silky smooth frosting. Fold in the chopped pecans by hand for even distribution.

Frost and Chill:

Drop spoonfuls of frosting across the cooled cake surface, then gently spread to create an even layer. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. The chilling time allows the frosting to set and the flavors to fully develop.

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The pineapple infusion is truly the heart of this recipe. My grandmother claimed Elvis himself loved pineapple in desserts, and whether that's true or not, the way the fruit creates these pockets of sweet, tropical goodness throughout the cake is what makes everyone go back for seconds.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization. Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the frosting for extra depth, or substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer. For a coconut twist, sprinkle a half cup of toasted coconut over the frosting before chilling. The cake base itself remains moist and delicious regardless of the additions.

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Storage Tips

The Elvis Presley Cake actually improves with time in the refrigerator. Store covered for up to 5 days the flavors continue to meld and develop. For longer storage, cut individual slices and freeze them with parchment paper between each piece. Frozen slices thaw beautifully after about an hour at room temperature, making this a perfect emergency dessert option.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete Elvis-inspired experience, serve alongside a cup of strong coffee just as The King might have enjoyed it. The cake is substantial enough to be a dessert centerpiece but casual enough for an afternoon treat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes Elvis Presley Cake unique?

Elvis Presley Cake stands out for its pineapple-soaked base that adds a tropical twist, paired with a creamy frosting that balances sweetness with tanginess.

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but ensure you crush and cook the fresh pineapple with sugar to create a similar syrupy consistency as the canned version in juice.

→ How do I store Elvis Presley Cake?

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The chilling time enhances the flavor and texture.

→ Can I skip the pecans in the frosting?

Yes, the pecans are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a smooth frosting texture or have dietary restrictions.

→ Why is chilling the cake important?

Chilling helps the pineapple glaze soak into the cake fully and allows the frosting to set, ensuring every bite has the perfect flavor and consistency.