Elvis Presley Cake is a decadent, sweet, and moist dessert named after the legendary King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This cake, known for its tropical flavors, combines pineapple, coconut, and a rich cream cheese frosting to create a unique flavor profile that fans of Southern desserts adore. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday, or just want to indulge in a nostalgic treat, this cake is an easy and satisfying option.
This recipe can be easily adjusted for gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-sugar diets. By the end, you’ll learn how to make Elvis Presley cake from scratch, adapt it to your needs, and store it for later.
Let’s dive into this classic recipe and bring a little bit of the King’s favorite flavors into your kitchen!
Benefits and Advantages of Elvis Presley Cake
Elvis Presley Cake is beloved for its simplicity, accessibility, and indulgent flavor. Let’s look at the specific advantages of making this cake and why it’s a perfect choice for various occasions:
1. A Quick and Easy Recipe
One of the best things about Elvis Presley Cake is how simple it is to make. The use of a boxed white cake mix streamlines the process, allowing even beginner bakers or busy individuals to whip it up with minimal effort. The added toppings of pineapple and coconut transform the basic cake mix into something extraordinary. With minimal prep and baking time, this cake is ready in under an hour, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or midweek treats.
2. Moist and Flavorful
Thanks to the crushed pineapple, this cake stays incredibly moist without needing excessive amounts of butter or oil. In addition, the pineapple juice, which soaks into the cake, keeps it light yet juicy, providing bursts of tropical flavor with every bite. Moreover, the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast, making each slice a perfect balance of sweet and creamy perfection.
3. Perfect for Celebrations and Everyday Indulgence
Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, Elvis Presley Cake fits the bill. Its nostalgic charm and visually appealing topping of coconut and pecans make it a standout centerpiece for special occasions. On the other hand, it’s easy enough to make that you could whip it up as a treat after a busy day.
4. Customizable for Different Dietary Needs
One of the great advantages of this cake is how easy it is to adapt for different dietary preferences or restrictions. Whether you need to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or reduce the sugar content, there are simple substitutions that don’t compromise the taste or texture. This flexibility makes the cake accessible to a wide range of people, including those with dietary restrictions.
5. Nutritional Perks
Although a treat, Elvis Presley Cake offers some surprising health benefits. Pineapple is rich in vitamin C, manganese, and fiber, all of which contribute to a healthy diet. Using crushed pineapple also reduces the need for excessive added sugars, as the fruit’s natural sweetness enhances the flavor. You can further reduce sugar by tweaking the frosting, making this cake a bit healthier than your average dessert.
With its combination of ease, flavor, and versatility, Elvis Presley Cake deserves a place in your recipe rotation. Let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dessert.
Ingredients Overview
Essential Ingredients for Elvis Presley Cake
To create an authentic Elvis Presley Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 box white cake mix (approximately 432 g): This forms the foundation of the cake and keeps the recipe quick and easy.
- 4 large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the cake.
- 1 can crushed pineapple (567 g), drained: Adds moisture and a sweet, tropical flavor to the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g): Used in the pineapple syrup to enhance the cake’s sweetness.
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut (45 g): Sprinkled on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (60 g), optional: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the tropical fruit.
- 1 package cream cheese (225 g), softened: Forms the base of the frosting, giving it a rich, tangy taste.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115 g), softened: Blends with the cream cheese to create a smooth, creamy frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar (240 g): Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting to the perfect consistency.
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract: Augments the taste of the icing.
Dietary Substitutions for Elvis Presley Cake
If you have specific dietary requirements or ingredient preferences, here are some easy substitutions to make the cake work for you:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the boxed white cake mix with a gluten-free version. There are several brands that offer excellent gluten-free cake mixes that work just as well as the standard mix.
- Dairy-Free: Replace the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives. Vegan cream cheese and margarine or coconut oil work wonderfully in place of dairy products, keeping the frosting creamy and rich without using milk-based ingredients.
- Low-Sugar: For a lower-sugar version, use a sugar alternative such as erythritol or stevia in the cake batter and frosting. These substitutes will significantly reduce the sugar content without altering the taste too much.
- Nut-Free: Simply omit the chopped pecans if you have a nut allergy. The coconut and pineapple offer plenty of flavor on their own.
Preparing Elvis Presley Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s break down the process of how to make Elvis Presley Cake step by step. Follow these instructions to ensure perfect results every time:
First Step: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray, then lightly flour it to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Second Step: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix with four large eggs and crushed pineapple (drained). Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until they are smooth and well-incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps in the batter, and the pineapple is evenly distributed.
Third Step: Bake the Cake
Sprinkle the top of the frosted cake with desiccated coconut and chopped pecans. Not only do these toppings add texture, but they also provide an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the frosting and the sweetness of the pineapple.
Fourth Step: Prepare the Pineapple Syrup
The syrup should be made when the cake is still hot. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with the remaining pineapple juice (from the can). Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the syrup begins to thicken slightly.
Fifth Step: Soak the Cake
Once the syrup is ready, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. Slowly pour the hot pineapple syrup over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This step keeps the cake moist and infuses it with extra pineapple flavor. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Sixth Step: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easily spreadable.
Seventh Step: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, then spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Make sure the cake is fully covered in a thick, generous layer of frosting.
Eighth Step: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the top of the frosted cake with desiccated coconut and chopped pecans. Not only do these toppings add texture, but they also provide an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the frosting and the sweetness of the pineapple.
Ninth Step: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into squares and serve. The combination of moist cake, fruity pineapple, rich frosting, and crunchy toppings creates a dessert that’s sure to please any crowd.
Mastering Elvis Presley Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations that will help you perfect your Elvis Presley Cake and experiment with different flavors:
- For a Toasted Coconut Topping: Toast the desiccated coconut in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown. This adds a nuttier, more intense coconut flavor.
- Adding Bananas: For a true Elvis-inspired dessert, add sliced bananas on top of the frosting. Bananas and peanut butter were a famous favorite of Elvis, and adding them to this cake gives it an extra nostalgic twist.
- Mango or Passionfruit Variations: Swap out the pineapple for other tropical fruits like mango or passionfruit for a unique spin on the original recipe.
- Chocolate Twist: Drizzle the cake with a chocolate ganache before adding the frosting for an indulgent combination of chocolate, pineapple, and cream cheese.
How to Store Elvis Presley Cake: Best Practices
Storing your Elvis Presley Cake properly ensures it stays fresh and delicious for several days.
- Refrigeration: Because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep the cake in the fridge. You can store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. The cake will remain fresh for a maximum of 5 days when stored in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: If you’d like to freeze the cake, it’s best to do so without the frosting. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and frost it before serving.
- Reheating: You may microwave each slice of cake for ten to fifteen seconds if you would rather eat it warm. This softens the cake and slightly melts the frosting, making it extra delicious.
Nutritional Benefits of Elvis Presley Cake
While this cake is a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation, it does offer some nutritional perks:
- Calories: A typical slice of Elvis Presley Cake contains around 350-400 calories, depending on portion size and ingredient adjustments.
- Fat: With the cream cheese and butter frosting, each slice contains approximately 18-20g of fat.
- Protein: Thanks to the eggs and cream cheese, this cake offers around 5-7g of protein per serving.
- Vitamins: Pineapple adds a healthy dose of vitamin C, while coconut contributes fiber. This makes the cake more nutritionally balanced than many other desserts.
FAQs: Optimizing Your Experience with Elvis Presley Cake
Q: Can Is it possible to substitute canned pineapple with fresh?
A: Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but you may need to puree it to achieve the same texture as crushed pineapple. Make sure to change the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit.
Q: Is it possible to prepare this cake in advance?
A: Absolutely! The cake may be prepared one day before and refrigerated. Just add the frosting right before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: Can I make this cake without coconut?
A: Yes, if you’re not a fan of coconut, simply omit it from the recipe. The cake will still be delicious with the pineapple and cream cheese frosting.
Q: How do I make a low-sugar version?
A: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in both the cake and the frosting. You can also reduce the amount of frosting used, as this is where most of the sugar comes from.
Q: Can I make this as cupcakes?
A: Yes! First, divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes. Once baked, frost each cupcake individually and sprinkle with your favorite toppings for an extra touch of flavor.ith your favorite toppings for an extra touch of flavor.