If you’ve never tried the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe before, get ready for a delightful journey into a retro southern classic that will steal your heart and taste buds. This luscious dessert combines the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple soaked into a moist yellow cake, layered with a dreamy cream cheese frosting, and topped with the crunch of pecans and the fluff of shredded coconut. Every bite is a perfect balance of juicy, creamy, and nutty that echoes the rock-and-roll spirit of its namesake. It’s an inviting cake that’s as simple to make as it is impossible to forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture that work harmoniously together. From the moist yellow cake base to the zesty pineapple syrup and fluffy frosting, these pantry staples come together beautifully.
- Yellow cake mix: The foundation of this cake, providing a soft and tender crumb that soaks up all the delicious pineapple juice.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Essential for mixing the cake batter as per the box directions, ensuring the perfect consistency.
- Crushed pineapple with juice: Adds tropical sweetness and moisture by soaking deep into the cake, making every bite juicy.
- Granulated sugar: Combined with pineapple to create a syrup that sweetens and enhances the cake texture.
- Cream cheese: Softened and whipped to create a rich, tangy frosting that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the frosting, balancing the tang of cream cheese.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting while giving it that light, fluffy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.
- Chopped pecans (optional): Provide a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess and pineapple flavors.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (optional): Adds a tropical, chewy topping that ties the whole cake together.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Yellow Cake
Start by preparing the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions; this includes combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan for the perfect thickness. Bake the cake until it’s golden and a toothpick comes out clean, then take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly while still warm.
Step 2: Poke Holes and Add Pineapple Syrup
Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake’s surface. This simple step is the secret to soaking in all that luscious pineapple syrup. In a saucepan, mix the crushed pineapple with its juice and granulated sugar, then bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat to dissolve the sugar and release flavors. Pour this hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into those holes, creating a burst of moist sweetness throughout.
Step 3: Cool Completely
Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature. This step is important because the cream cheese frosting will not spread smoothly on a warm cake, and letting the syrup soak in fully will intensify the flavor and moisture balance.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until the frosting turns light and fluffy. For an extra pineapple twist, you can mix in a few tablespoons of pineapple juice to the frosting, which adds brightness and ties everything together deliciously.
Step 5: Frost and Garnish
Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut on top. These optional garnishes create a wonderful contrast of texture and flavor, making the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe even more exciting.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Pop the cake into the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld, the frosting to set perfectly, and the cake to reach its ultimate moist and luscious texture. Slice and enjoy this unforgettable treat!
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like extra shredded coconut and chopped pecans really elevate the texture and visual appeal of the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe. You can also add a few whole pecan halves or a dash of cinnamon for a little extra flair. Fresh pineapple slices on the side add a lovely fresh note as well.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream for a classic American dessert experience. For a retro twist, serve it alongside a cup of strong black coffee or a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness and keep it comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into small squares for party finger foods, or serve individual slices topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce or fresh pineapple compote. Another fun idea is layering pieces with dollops of whipped cream and pineapple chunks in parfait glasses for an elegant twist that impresses guests with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and moist. It holds up nicely for about 3 to 5 days, perfect for planning ahead or enjoying second helpings without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. This makes it convenient to prepare in advance for special occasions.
Reheating
Since this is a moist and creamy dessert, reheating isn’t typically recommended. However, if you prefer your cake at room temperature, simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the frosting to soften slightly and the flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a cake mix?
Absolutely! While the box mix makes this recipe super simple, you can definitely bake a homemade yellow cake if you prefer. Just make sure it has a sturdy crumb to absorb the pineapple syrup well without becoming soggy.
What if I don’t like coconut or pecans?
No worries at all! The Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe is delightful even without those toppings. Feel free to skip them or replace with your favorite nuts or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for added crunch.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Fresh pineapple can work, but canned crushed pineapple with juice is best for consistency and flavor balance. If you go fresh, make sure to blend it finely and include a bit of extra juice and sugar to mimic the syrupy effect.
Is this cake gluten-free?
Traditional yellow cake mixes usually contain gluten. However, you can find gluten-free yellow cake mixes at many stores to make a gluten-free version of this Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe without sacrificing taste.
How long can I make the cake in advance?
This dessert actually tastes better the next day after chilling, because the flavors meld and the cake soaks up the pineapple syrup perfectly. You can prepare it up to 24 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe that captures a slice of nostalgia and brings it right to your table. Its tropical sweetness, creamy frosting, and delightful textures make it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to love. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or treating yourself on a quiet evening, this cake promises smiles and satisfied cravings in every forkful. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why it’s a timeless favorite!
Print
Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elvis Presley Cake, also known as Jailhouse Rock Cake, is a nostalgic southern-inspired dessert featuring a moist yellow cake soaked with a sweet pineapple syrup, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. This rich and flavorful cake perfectly balances tropical pineapple and creamy textures, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water)
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Frosting
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings (Optional)
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- Sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions, including adding the eggs, oil, and water as instructed. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as directed, usually about 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke Holes in Warm Cake: While the cake is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top, allowing the pineapple syrup to seep in and infuse the cake with moisture and flavor.
- Make Pineapple Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the crushed pineapple with its juice and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and syrupy.
- Pour Syrup Over Cake: Immediately pour the hot pineapple syrup evenly over the warm cake, ensuring it soaks through the holes. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature to absorb the syrup fully.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled, pineapple-soaked cake, covering the entire surface.
- Add Optional Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut over the frosting for added texture and flavor, if desired.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least a few hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture, allowing the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For an intensified pineapple flavor, add a few tablespoons of pineapple juice to the cream cheese frosting.
- This cake tastes best after chilling overnight, so consider making it a day in advance.
- Optional toppings like pecans and shredded coconut add a nice crunchy texture but can be omitted if allergic or preferred plain.
