There are desserts, and then there are showstoppers—Elvis Presley Cake, also famously known as Jailhouse Rock Cake, falls squarely into the second category. Imagine biting into a rich white cake drenched in warm pineapple syrup, topped with velvety cream cheese frosting and crowned with crunchy pecans. It’s a flavor explosion worthy of The King himself.

This cake is the perfect centerpiece for a festive holiday table, a potluck that needs a crowd-pleaser, or even just a cozy family weekend treat. Inspired by Elvis’s well-known love for bold flavors and indulgent eats, this cake brings a piece of music history to your kitchen. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a dessert lover, this recipe is a delightful way to shake up your usual baking routine.

Let’s dive into a cake that’s as unforgettable as an Elvis ballad.

What Is Elvis Presley Cake?

The Elvis Presley Cake is a delicious Southern-style dessert that combines sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors in one unforgettable bite. It starts with a simple box of white cake mix, which becomes the canvas for something truly magical.

After baking, the cake is drenched in a hot pineapple glaze, which soaks into holes poked throughout the cake. The real showstopper, though, is the luxurious cream cheese and pecan frosting layered on top. The final touch? A generous sprinkle of crushed pecans for texture and depth.

It’s rumored that Elvis enjoyed a version of this dessert so much that it became a staple after performances—thus the playful nickname, Jailhouse Rock Cake. Regardless of the lore, one thing’s for sure: this cake rocks.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

✅ Quick & Easy: With the help of a boxed cake mix, you can whip up this decadent dessert without stress.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser: It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and nutty—there’s a flavor in here for everyone.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion: From birthdays to holidays or just because—it always fits.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly: The cake needs to chill, making it a great make-ahead option for busy hosts.
✅ Nostalgic Appeal: You’re not just making a dessert—you’re making a conversation starter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to get started. Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store.

Cake Base:

1 box White Cake Mix
Ingredients required on the box (typically oil, eggs, and water)

Pineapple Topping:

8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (with juice)
1 cup Granulated Sugar
½ tsp Vanilla Extract

Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
½ cup Butter, softened
3 cups Powdered Sugar
½ tsp Vanilla Extract
3 cups Crushed Pecans (divided)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for a foolproof cake that turns out perfect every time.

1. Bake the Cake

Prepare the white cake according to the instructions on the box. You can use a 9×13-inch pan for a traditional presentation or opt for round pans for a more elegant layered look.

After baking, allow the cake to cool completely. Then, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface—these holes are key to absorbing the pineapple mixture.

2. Make the Pineapple Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:

8 oz crushed pineapple (with juice)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Pour the hot mixture evenly over the cooled, hole-poked cake. The syrup will seep into every crevice, creating a moist, flavor-packed bite in every forkful.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:

8 oz softened cream cheese
½ cup softened butter

Once the mixture is smooth and creamy, gradually add:

3 cups powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups crushed pecans

Beat until everything is fully incorporated. This frosting is rich, nutty, and smooth—a perfect contrast to the tart pineapple base.

4. Frost and Garnish

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled, pineapple-soaked cake. Be generous—it’s part of what makes this dessert so luxurious.

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crushed pecans over the top. This final touch adds crunch, flavor, and visual appeal.

5. Chill for Best Results

Refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours, though overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become even more irresistible.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Elvis Presley Cake

Use room temperature ingredients for the frosting to ensure it whips up smooth and creamy.
Don’t skip the chilling time! The cake needs time for the flavors to soak and settle.
For extra decadence, drizzle a little caramel sauce on top right before serving.
Want a twist? Add shredded coconut to the pineapple mixture or the frosting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage:

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake actually tastes better a day or two after making as the flavors intensify over time.

Freezing:

You can freeze the unfrosted cake base for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the pineapple topping and frosting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled straight from the fridge, or let it sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before slicing. It pairs beautifully with:

Freshly brewed coffee
A glass of sweet iced tea
A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side

This cake is also an excellent addition to a Southern-style dessert table alongside banana pudding, peach cobbler, or sweet potato pie.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

While this dessert is more about indulgence than calorie counting, here’s a rough estimate per slice (assuming 12 servings):

Calories: 450
Fat: 24g
Sugar: 40g
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on specific ingredients used.

FAQs About Elvis Presley Cake

Can I use a yellow cake mix instead of white?

Yes! Yellow cake adds a richer flavor, though the traditional version uses white cake for a neutral, fluffy base.

Can I leave out the pecans?

Absolutely. If you have nut allergies or just prefer a smoother frosting, omit the pecans. You can replace them with toasted coconut or leave the frosting plain.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, due to the cream cheese frosting and pineapple topping, it should be stored in the refrigerator.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes, but be mindful that the pineapple topping may make them a bit messier. Use a piping bag for the frosting for neatness.

The King Would Approve – Final Thoughts

If you’ve been looking for a dessert that’s bold, nostalgic, and seriously delicious, Elvis Presley Cake is the one to try. It’s sweet and tangy, soft and crunchy, indulgent and easy to make—all at once. Whether you’re honoring a family tradition, throwing a retro party, or just want to try something new, this cake delivers rockstar-level flavor.

Once you serve this cake, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your baking rotation. Hunka hunka burning love? More like a hunka hunka delicious cake.

Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake)