Elvis Presley Cake

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Absolutely! Here’s a full, in-depth version of the Elvis Presley Cake, also known as Jailhouse Rock Cake — packed with history, details, methods, and plenty of love for dessert fans.

Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake)

A Southern classic that pays tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself

Introduction

The Elvis Presley Cake, also affectionately called the Jailhouse Rock Cake, is a rich, Southern-style dessert inspired by the musical legend himself — Elvis Presley. Known for his larger-than-life persona and deep roots in Southern cuisine, this cake is believed to be based on flavors Elvis adored — particularly pineapple and pecans. It’s moist, sweet, creamy, and textured, embodying a nostalgic charm that takes us right back to the 1950s. Whether you’re a longtime Elvis lover or simply a dessert enthusiast, this cake is sure to make you sing.

A Brief History & Formation

While Elvis’s favorite foods often included rich Southern dishes like fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches, legend has it that this pineapple-laced white cake was a family favorite, reportedly served at gatherings and celebrations. Some versions of the story claim this cake was made for him by fans or brought backstage on tour. Its name, “Jailhouse Rock Cake”, connects it to his hit 1957 song and movie Jailhouse Rock, giving the dessert a rock ‘n’ roll flair.

The cake blends simplicity and decadence — starting with a white cake base, soaked with a pineapple-vanilla mixture, and topped with a thick layer of pecan-studded cream cheese frosting. It’s a cake that tells a story in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box White Cake Mix (plus ingredients required on the box — typically eggs, oil, and water)
  • 8 oz Crushed Pineapple (with juice)
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • ½ tsp Vanilla Extract

For the Frosting:

  • 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 3 cups Powdered Sugar
  • ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 3 cups Crushed Pecans (divided: 2 cups for the frosting, 1 cup for topping)

Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Saucepan
  • 9×13” baking dish (or preferred cake pan)
  • Wooden spoon or skewer (for poking holes)
  • Rubber spatula

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Bake the Cake

  1. Preheat your oven according to the directions on the cake mix box (typically 350°F/175°C).
  2. Prepare the white cake mix using the box instructions.
  3. Pour batter into a greased 9×13″ cake pan and bake as directed, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Allow the cake to cool in the pan.
  5. Once cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake — this allows the pineapple mixture to seep in and infuse flavor.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple Mixture

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice), 1 cup sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 3–5 minutes).
  3. Immediately pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the poked cake, making sure it fills the holes.
  4. Let it cool completely — the pineapple will soak into the cake and make it ultra-moist.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
  3. Stir in 2 cups of crushed pecans, folding them into the frosting for a nutty texture.
  4. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled, pineapple-soaked cake.

Step 4: Garnish & Chill

  1. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crushed pecans over the frosted cake.
  2. Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld into one harmonious dessert.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled or slightly cool for best flavor and texture.
  • Pairs beautifully with sweet tea or coffee.
  • For an extra Southern touch, top each slice with a maraschino cherry or a small slice of banana.

Conclusion

The Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a tribute to an icon, a slice of history, and a celebration of Southern indulgence. It has stood the test of time for good reason: it’s moist, flavorful, easy to make, and loved by all. Whether you’re preparing it for a party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night with old records playing, this cake will never leave you feeling lonesome tonight.

For the Lovers of the King — and Cake

This cake isn’t just for Elvis fans — it’s for lovers of nostalgia, for bakers who appreciate comfort food, and for anyone who believes dessert should come with a story. From the soft sponge to the sweet pineapple and creamy pecan-laden frosting, this cake hits every note.

You don’t need to be in Graceland to enjoy the magic. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be dancing to your own Jailhouse Rock in no time.

Would you like a printable version or a visual recipe card?

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