Elvis Presley Cake: A Southern Delight

Name: Elvis Presley Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 box (18 oz) yellow cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 1/3 cups water; 1 box (16 oz) powdered sugar; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1 can (14 oz) crushed pineapple in syrup; 1 cup chopped pecans (optional); 12 oz semi-sweet coconut

Elvis Presley Cake is a legendary Southern treat that encapsulates the heart and soul of home baking. With its moist yellow cake base, luscious cream cheese icing, and tropical hints from crushed pineapple and coconut, this cake is a delightful experience for your taste buds. The aromatic blend of sweetness and the richness of cream cheese creates a decadent dessert that is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with your afternoon coffee. The cake’s texture is light yet decadent, making each slice melt in your mouth. Whether you are honoring the King of Rock and Roll or just looking for a comforting dessert, this Elvis Presley Cake will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

1 box (18 oz) yellow cake mix: Provides the base for a light and fluffy cake.
3 large eggs: Essential for adding structure and richness to the cake.
1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and adds richness.
1 1/3 cups water: Hydrates the cake mix for the perfect batter consistency.
1 box (16 oz) powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps create the creamy icing.
1 cup granulated sugar: Enhances the sweetness in the cake and pineapple mixture.
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the icing.
1 can (14 oz) crushed pineapple in syrup: Contributes moisture and tropical flavor.
1 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
12 oz semi-sweet coconut: Gives a chewy texture and sweet flavor to the top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven according to the yellow cake mix package instructions. Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a small saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with syrup) and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until warmed through.
In another saucepan, melt the softened cream cheese over low heat. Gradually add half of the powdered sugar, stirring until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions by blending in the eggs, vegetable oil, and water.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
Bake the cake according to package instructions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and poke holes all over the top using a wooden spoon handle.
Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake.
Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the cake.
If using, sprinkle chopped pecans and coconut on top.
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 12-16
Calories: Approximately 400 per slice

Tips, Storage & Variations

For a richer flavor, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before melting. This will ensure a smoother icing.
Storage: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: The cake can be frozen without icing for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Variations: Consider adding a dash of vanilla extract to the batter or using walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.

FAQ Section

What is Elvis Presley Cake?

Elvis Presley Cake is a moist yellow cake topped with a cream cheese icing, crushed pineapple, and coconut.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but you will need to reduce the syrup content by adding a bit of sugar or juice to achieve similar moisture.

How long does Elvis Presley Cake last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts about 5 days.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Elvis Presley Cake can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until serving.

Is the coconut necessary?

While coconut adds flavor and texture, you can omit it if desired to keep the cake simpler.

Can I freeze Elvis Presley Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without icing for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly.

Conclusion

Elvis Presley Cake is an unforgettable dessert that brings together sweetness and nostalgia in every bite. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe and share it with your loved ones—it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the joy of baking and the smiles it brings!

Elvis Presley Cake

Print Recipe

A legendary Southern treat featuring a moist yellow cake base topped with creamy icing, crushed pineapple, and coconut.

Author: amanda-lewis
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 box (18 oz) yellow cake mix
3 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 1/3 cups water
1 box (16 oz) powdered sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 can (14 oz) crushed pineapple in syrup
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
12 oz semi-sweet coconut

Instructions

Preheat the oven according to the yellow cake mix package instructions. Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a small saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with syrup) and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until warmed through.
In another saucepan, melt the softened cream cheese over low heat. Gradually add half of the powdered sugar, stirring until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions by blending in the eggs, vegetable oil, and water.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
Bake the cake according to package instructions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and poke holes all over the top using a wooden spoon handle.
Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake.
Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the cake.
If using, sprinkle chopped pecans and coconut on top.
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a smoother icing, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before melting. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.