If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with classic Southern charm and unforgettable flavors, you simply must try the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe. This cake is a tender white cake soaked in a warm, sweet pineapple mixture, layered with luscious cream cheese frosting loaded with crunchy pecans, and topped with even more nuts for that perfect Southern texture. Every bite brings a delightful blend of tropical sweetness and creamy, nutty richness that feels both nostalgic and refreshing. Trust me, once you make it, this cake will quickly become a cherished go-to for family gatherings or anytime you want to impress with something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of this recipe’s success, and you’ll be amazed at how straightforward yet essential each one is. From the bright, juicy pineapple to the rich cream cheese and crunchy pecans, every component plays a key role in giving the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe its signature flavor and texture.
- White Cake Mix: An easy base that ensures a soft and fluffy cake texture without fuss.
- 8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (with juice): Adds moisture and a tropical tang that soaks deep into the cake.
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the pineapple mixture perfectly for that luscious soak.
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (for pineapple mixture): Brings out warm, aromatic tones to enhance the pineapple flavor.
- 8 oz package Cream Cheese, softened: Creates a rich and tangy frosting that complements the pineapple-soaked cake.
- ½ cup Butter, softened: Adds creamy smoothness and body to the frosting.
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and firms up the frosting for easy spreading.
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (for frosting): Provides a subtle depth that rounds out the frosting’s flavor.
- 3 cups Crushed Pecans: Essential for that classic Southern crunch, folded into the frosting and sprinkled on top.
How to Make Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven as directed on the white cake mix package. Prepare the batter following the instructions on the box, which keeps this recipe refreshingly simple and accessible. Pour the batter into your cake pan and bake according to the package’s timing. Once golden and fully baked, take it out and let it cool completely right in the pan to keep it moist and ready for the next magical step.
Step 2: Prepare Pineapple Mixture
While the cake cools, combine the crushed pineapple including all that delicious juice, granulated sugar, and half a teaspoon of vanilla extract in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally so it thickens just slightly and the sugar dissolves beautifully. This pineapple soak is what transforms a simple white cake into a gloriously moist and flavorful dessert. Once thickened, remove it from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Soak the Cake
Using the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly all over the cooled cake. This little trick lets the hot pineapple mixture seep right inside, infusing every bite with sweetness and moisture. Slowly pour your warm pineapple mix over the cake, making sure it fills all those holes. Let the cake sit and absorb this syrupy sunshine while it continues to cool — this is the heart of the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe’s incredible taste.
Step 4: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and the remaining half teaspoon of vanilla extract until the frosting is fluffy and luscious. Stir in two cups of those lovely crushed pecans, folding them throughout the frosting to add a perfect crunch inside your topping.
Step 5: Frost the Cake and Garnish
Spread the rich cream cheese frosting evenly over the pineapple-soaked cake, smoothing the surface with a spatula to create a clean canvas. Then sprinkle the remaining cup of crushed pecans generously on top, giving the cake that signature nutty Southern flair and an irresistible texture contrast. This final topping makes the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe truly stand out on any dessert table.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Pop the cake into the refrigerator for at least six hours or overnight to let all the flavors marry and the cake to set perfectly. When you’re ready to impress, slice up this Southern treasure and, if you’re feeling extra festive, add some fresh raspberries or a touch of lemon zest curls for a bright, pretty finish.
How to Serve Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
While the crushed pecans on top create a fantastic finish, adding fresh fruit garnishes like raspberries or slices of banana can bring a refreshing burst of flavor and color. A sprinkle of lemon zest curls lifts the sweet richness of the cake with a citrusy zing, making the presentation as captivating as the taste.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance its dense, nutty texture and sweet pineapple flavor. For an afternoon treat, a cup of hot coffee or a strong black tea complements the rich cream cheese frosting beautifully, making each bite feel like a cozy, indulgent moment.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get playful, serve this cake in individual trifle glasses layered with additional pineapple chunks and chopped pecans for a deconstructed take that’s as charming as it is delicious. You can also cut the cake into small bars for a party platter or wrap simple slices in parchment paper for delightful grab-and-go treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist for up to 4 days, allowing you to savor its Southern goodness well beyond the first slice.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, you can freeze the cake either whole (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil) or sliced into individual portions. Frozen, it will stay delicious for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled, but if you prefer, you can let slices sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting slightly. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the cream cheese frosting to become too soft or separate.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade white cake instead of a cake mix?
Absolutely! A homemade white cake will work wonderfully and allow you to customize flavors even more. Just make sure your cake is moist and not too dense to soak up the pineapple mixture properly.
What type of pecans should I use?
Use fresh, unsalted, and coarsely crushed pecans for the best texture and flavor. Toasting them lightly before adding to the frosting can also add a lovely depth of flavor.
Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?
Sure! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives if you prefer. Just keep the texture and crunch in mind to maintain that classic Southern bite.
How far in advance can I make this cake?
This cake actually benefits from chilling overnight to let flavors meld beautifully, so preparing it a day ahead is perfect. Just be sure to store it covered in the fridge.
Is there an alcohol-free version?
This recipe is naturally alcohol-free, so it’s family-friendly and perfect for any occasion!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe that makes it a standout at any gathering. Its harmony of moist pineapple-soaked cake, creamy pecan-filled frosting, and nutty topping creates a dessert experience that’s comforting, exciting, and utterly delicious. I encourage you to whip one up and share the joy—it’s a surefire way to make memories through the love of Southern baking.
Print
Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) – Classic Southern Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Elvis Presley Cake, also known as Jailhouse Rock Cake, is a classic Southern dessert featuring a moist white cake soaked in a sweet pineapple mixture, layered with rich cream cheese frosting mixed with crushed pecans, and topped with a generous sprinkle of pecans. This delightful cake combines fruity, nutty, and creamy flavors for a nostalgic treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box White Cake Mix
For the Pineapple Soak
- 8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz package Cream Cheese, softened
- ½ cup Butter, softened
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3 cups Crushed Pecans (divided as 2 cups for frosting, 1 cup for topping)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the white cake mix package. Prepare the cake batter as directed on the package and bake it in a cake pan as instructed. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Pineapple Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple, including its juice, with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it boil for about 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Soak the Cake: Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cooled cake while it is still in the pan. Slowly pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to absorb the pineapple mixture as it continues to cool.
- Make Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth and well combined. Stir in 2 cups of the crushed pecans evenly into the frosting.
- Frost the Cake: Carefully spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake, covering it completely and smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crushed pecans evenly over the frosted cake to create a generous nutty topping.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together and the cake to set properly.
- Serve: Once chilled, slice and serve the Elvis Presley Cake. For an extra decorative touch, garnish with lemon zest curls and fresh raspberries if desired.
Notes
- Be sure to poke the holes deeply enough for the pineapple mixture to soak into the cake layers thoroughly.
- Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a smoother frosting.
- Refrigeration is key to letting the flavors develop and the cake to hold together well.
- You can toast the pecans lightly before adding them to bring out their flavor.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or iced tea.
