What Is Elvis Presley Cake? A Southern Dessert Fit for a King

If you’re a fan of decadent, nostalgic desserts, you may have come across Elvis Presley cake. But what exactly is this delicious dessert, and why is it named after the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll? This Southern classic, known for its rich and moist texture, is a pineapple poke cake that’s as unique as it is delicious. Said to be one of Elvis’s favorite treats, this cake is a fitting tribute to his larger-than-life persona.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes this cake so special, how to make it, and why it’s a must-try for fans of both Elvis and classic Southern desserts.

Introduction to Elvis Presley Cake

So, what is Elvis Presley cake? This sweet treat is a pineapple poke cake, where a light, airy cake is infused with crushed pineapple and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. The cake is typically made with a white or yellow cake base, but what sets it apart is the tangy pineapple layer that soaks into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.

Legend has it that Elvis Presley himself enjoyed this cake, which is where it gets its name. True or not, the cake’s blend of tropical fruit and rich frosting certainly makes it worthy of a star. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a delicious slice of Southern comfort, Elvis Presley cake will hit the spot.

What Makes Elvis Presley Cake Special?

Let’s take a closer look at the elements that make this dessert so irresistible:

1. Pineapple Poke Cake

The core of this dessert is a poke cake. After baking, holes are poked into the cake, allowing the pineapple and its juices to soak in. This technique gives the cake a moist, fruity flavor that permeates every bite.

2. Light and Moist Cake Base

Elvis Presley cake usually starts with a white or yellow cake mix. This provides a soft, airy base that absorbs the pineapple juice, making the cake extra tender and flavorful.

3. Crushed Pineapple Layer

After baking the cake, crushed pineapple is spooned over the top, along with the syrup. This step is key to creating the unique flavor and texture of this dessert, making it fruity and tangy.

4. Cream Cheese Frosting

Topping off this cake is a rich cream cheese frosting, which adds a velvety smooth finish. The sweetness of the frosting perfectly balances the tart pineapple, creating a delicious contrast of flavors.

These layers come together to create a cake that is light, moist, and full of flavor. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or just love a good pineapple dessert, this cake will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients Overview

To make this cake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a show-stopping dessert.

Essential Ingredients for Elvis Presley Cake

White or Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): The base of the cake, providing a light and fluffy texture.
Crushed Pineapple (1 can, 20 oz): Adds fruity flavor and moisture.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the pineapple layer.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a rich, creamy frosting.
Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds richness to the frosting.
Powdered Sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the frosting without making it too heavy.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor of both the cake and the frosting.

These ingredients are easy to find and combine to create a dessert that’s fit for a king.

Dietary Substitutions for Elvis Presley Cake

If you need to adjust the recipe to fit dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some simple substitutions:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Replace the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like margarine or a plant-based cream cheese.
Lower-Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with a lower-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

With these modifications, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of this cake while meeting your dietary needs.

How to Make Elvis Presley Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know what makes this cake special, it’s time to learn how to make it at home. Follow these simple steps to bake a moist, flavorful cake that will leave everyone asking for more.

First Step: Bake the Cake

Start by preparing the cake mix according to the package instructions. Use a white or yellow cake mix and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Once the cake is done, let it cool for 10 minutes.

Second Step: Poke Holes in the Cake

While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top. This step is essential for allowing the pineapple juice to seep into the cake and make it extra moist.

Third Step: Prepare the Pineapple Layer

In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice) and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and carefully spoon the pineapple mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.

Fourth Step: Let the Cake Cool

Allow the cake to cool completely, about 1-2 hours. This gives the pineapple time to soak into the cake and ensures the frosting won’t melt when applied.

Fifth Step: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.

Sixth Step: Frost the Cake

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. You can top it with chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or more pineapple if desired for extra texture and flavor.

Seventh Step: Serve and Enjoy

Once frosted, slice the cake and serve. The combination of tangy pineapple, sweet frosting, and moist cake makes each bite a delicious indulgence.

Advanced Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

Now that you know how to make this dessert, here are some advanced tips to take it to the next level:

Make It From Scratch: Instead of using a cake mix, you can make a homemade vanilla cake to give it a personal touch.
Add a Coconut Layer: For an extra tropical twist, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the frosting.
Top with Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

These tips will help you customize the cake to your liking and make it even more special.

How to Store Elvis Presley Cake

This cake is best stored in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Here’s how:

In the Refrigerator: Store the cake in an airtight container or cover the pan with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
In the Freezer: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Slice the cake into individual portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Proper storage ensures the cake stays moist and flavorful for days.

Nutritional Value of Elvis Presley Cake

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for one slice of this cake (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 350-400
Carbohydrates: 45-50 grams
Protein: 4-5 grams
Fat: 18-20 grams
Sugar: 30-35 grams

This cake is rich and indulgent, so enjoy it in moderation!

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Elvis Presley Cake

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes! You can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to cook it down with sugar to create a syrup that will soak into the cake.

Q: How far in advance can I make this cake?
A: This cake can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in the fridge and frost it closer to serving time for the freshest taste.

Q: Can I use a different frosting?
A: Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting is traditional, you can also try a whipped cream frosting or even a buttercream for a different flavor profile.

Q: Why is it called Elvis Presley cake?
A: The cake is named after the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, who reportedly loved this pineapple dessert. Whether or not he truly ate it, the name stuck because of its rich, decadent nature, much like Elvis’s larger-than-life personality.

Conclusion

Now that you know what Elvis Presley cake is, it’s time to give this classic Southern dessert a try. With its moist pineapple-infused cake and rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a fan of Elvis or just love a good poke cake, this dessert is one you’ll want to make again and again.

What is Elvis Presley cake?