Here’s the full recipe for the iconic Elvis Presley Cake (also called Jailhouse Rock Cake) — a sweet, rich, and fruity dessert that’s as indulgent as The King himself liked it! It starts with a fluffy white cake base, is soaked in a warm pineapple-sugar mixture, then topped with a rich cream cheese frosting and toasted pecans.
🎂 Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake)
🕐 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🍳 Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
❄️ Chill Time: At least 1 hour
🍽️ Serves: 12–16
📝 Ingredients:
Cake:
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1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box — usually egg whites, oil, and water)
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1 8 oz can crushed pineapple (with juice)
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ tsp vanilla extract
Frosting:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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3 cups powdered sugar
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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3 cups crushed pecans (divided; toasted, if desired)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Bake the cake:
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Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions (typically 350°F / 175°C).
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Prepare cake mix as directed and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
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Once baked, remove from oven and let sit for about 5 minutes.
2. Make the pineapple topping:
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine crushed pineapple with juice, 1 cup sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla.
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Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Soak the cake:
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While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork.
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Slowly pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake. Let it soak in and cool completely.
4. Make the frosting:
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Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
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Add powdered sugar gradually and beat until creamy.
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Mix in ½ tsp vanilla extract.
5. Frost and finish:
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Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake.
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Sprinkle generously with crushed pecans (reserve some for garnish if desired).
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Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and texture.
💡 Tips:
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To toast pecans: Place in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring until fragrant.
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Make a day ahead — the flavors deepen and the cake gets even better.
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You can use yellow cake mix if preferred for a richer flavor.