If you love moist, fruity cakes with creamy frosting, this Elvis Presley Cake is guaranteed to become a favorite dessert in your kitchen. Made with a simple yellow cake base, sweet pineapple topping, and rich cream cheese frosting, this classic Southern-style cake is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend baking. Every bite is soft, rich, and packed with tropical pineapple flavor balanced by the tangy frosting and crunchy candied pecans.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make using a boxed cake mix
• Ultra-moist texture thanks to the pineapple topping
• Rich cream cheese frosting adds the perfect balance
• Great for birthdays, holidays, and gatherings
• Can be made ahead and refrigerated
• Sweet, creamy, fruity, and crunchy all in one dessert
• Beginner-friendly recipe with simple ingredients

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake

• cooking spray
• 1 package (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup canola oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 package (16 ounces) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

Additional Ingredients

• 1/4 cup candied pecans, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, whole milk, canola oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter becomes smooth and lighter in color.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
4. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Remove the cake from the oven and immediately use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes.
6. While the cake cools, prepare the pineapple topping. Add the crushed pineapple with its juice and the granulated sugar to a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2 minutes.
7. Spoon the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the holes for maximum moisture and flavor. Let the cake cool completely for about 30 minutes.
8. To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
10. Add the vanilla bean paste and kosher salt. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
11. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
12. Sprinkle chopped candied pecans over the top before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 slices
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 20–24 minutes
• Cooling Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Use white cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a lighter flavor.
• Add shredded coconut on top for a tropical twist.
• Replace pecans with walnuts if preferred.
• Add maraschino cherries for extra sweetness and color.
• Try pineapple cake mix for even more pineapple flavor.
• Toast the pecans before adding them for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Elvis Presley Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is important to maintain freshness and texture.

For best results, let slices sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the frosting softens slightly.

This cake is not ideal for microwaving since the frosting may melt too quickly. If desired, enjoy it chilled straight from the refrigerator.

FAQs

What makes Elvis Presley Cake so moist?

The pineapple topping seeps into the holes poked throughout the cake, creating an incredibly soft and moist texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually tastes even better after chilling for a few hours because the flavors blend beautifully.

Can I freeze Elvis Presley Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without the pecan topping for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Do I have to use yellow cake mix?

No, white or pineapple-flavored cake mix also works well in this recipe.

Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely. A homemade yellow cake recipe can be substituted if preferred.

Why do you poke holes in the cake?

The holes allow the pineapple mixture to soak deep into the cake for extra moisture and flavor.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Canned crushed pineapple is recommended because it contains the juice needed for the topping, but finely chopped fresh pineapple can work if extra juice is added.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Yes, simply leave out the pecans if you prefer a nut-free dessert.

What should I serve with Elvis Presley Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Elvis Presley Cake is a rich and comforting dessert that combines moist yellow cake, sweet pineapple topping, creamy frosting, and crunchy pecans into one unforgettable treat. Its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor make it perfect for celebrations, family dinners, or anytime you want a delicious homemade dessert without complicated steps. Once you try this fruity Southern-inspired cake, it may quickly become one of your favorite recipes to bake again and again.

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