Description: This Elvis Presley Cake, affectionately nicknamed the “Jailhouse Rock Cake,” is a delightfully retro dessert that combines the simplicity of a white cake mix with the tangy sweetness of pineapple and the rich, nutty decadence of a cream cheese frosting studded with pecans. It’s a surprisingly easy cake to make, relying on a few shortcuts for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s moist, flavorful, and utterly addictive, embodying the larger-than-life persona of the King himself. This cake is a perfect embodiment of Southern charm and comfort food. The bright burst of pineapple contrasts beautifully with the creamy frosting and the earthy crunch of pecans. The cake is typically served cold, making it a refreshing treat, especially on a warm day.
Ingredients:
- 1 box White Cake Mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, such as eggs and oil)
- 8 oz can Crushed Pineapple (in juice, do not drain)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (divided into two ¼ tsp amounts)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) Butter, softened
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- 3 cups Crushed Pecans (divided)
Preparation:
Step 1:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven according to the white cake mix package instructions. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or any other cake pan you prefer.
Step 2:
- Bake the Cake: Prepare the white cake batter according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the package directions, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial; a warm cake will melt the pineapple mixture and the frosting, resulting in a soggy dessert.
Step 3:
- Poke Holes: Once the cake is completely cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon, a fork, or a skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. The more holes, the better the pineapple mixture will soak in. This step is essential for achieving the characteristic moistness of the cake.
Step 4:
- Make the Pineapple Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice – do not drain it!), granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. The mixture should thicken slightly as the sugar dissolves and the pineapple releases its flavors.
Step 5:
- Soak the Cake: Carefully and evenly pour the hot pineapple mixture over the cooled cake, making sure the liquid seeps into all the holes. The cake will absorb the pineapple mixture, making it incredibly moist and flavorful. Let the cake sit and soak for about 30 minutes to allow the pineapple to fully penetrate the cake.
Step 6:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This is best achieved with an electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer). Ensure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the frosting.
Step 7:
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese and butter mixture, mixing on low speed until well combined. Be careful not to add the powdered sugar too quickly, or it will create a cloud of sugar dust. Add the remaining ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until everything is smooth.
Step 8:
- Incorporate Pecans: Stir in 2 cups of crushed pecans into the cream cheese frosting. Gently fold them in until evenly distributed. The pecans add a lovely texture and nutty flavor to complement the sweetness of the cake.
Step 9:
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the pineapple-soaked cake. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the cake with a generous layer of frosting.
Step 10:
- Garnish with Pecans: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of crushed pecans evenly over the top of the frosted cake. This final touch adds a beautiful presentation and an extra layer of nutty flavor.
Step 11:
- Chill: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together and for the frosting to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: This recipe starts with a boxed cake mix, making it incredibly easy and quick to prepare. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who needs a delicious dessert in a hurry.
- Incredibly Moist: The pineapple mixture soaks into the cake, making it exceptionally moist and flavorful. It’s a far cry from dry, crumbly cakes.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of the sweet pineapple, creamy frosting, and crunchy pecans is simply irresistible. The flavors work together in perfect harmony.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake actually tastes better after it’s been chilled for several hours or overnight, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves this cake! It’s a classic dessert that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Chilled: This cake is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: The sweetness of the cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve a slice of Elvis Presley Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Garnish with Pineapple Wedges: To enhance the pineapple flavor, garnish each slice with a fresh pineapple wedge.
- Cut into Squares or Rectangles: Cut the cake into squares or rectangles for easy serving.
Tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: While this recipe is simple, using quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor. Use a good quality white cake mix and real butter and cream cheese for the frosting.
- Don’t Overbake the Cake: Overbaking the cake will result in a dry dessert. Be sure to check the cake for doneness according to the package instructions and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s done.
- Soften the Butter and Cream Cheese: Make sure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before making the frosting. This will ensure a smooth and creamy frosting without any lumps.
- Toast the Pecans (Optional): For an even more intense nutty flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Let them cool completely before crushing and adding them to the cake.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar.
- Store Properly: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes (for the cake) + 7 minutes (for pineapple mixture)
Total Time: 57 minutes + chilling time (minimum 6 hours, preferably overnight)
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 450-550 (depending on cake mix and serving size)
- Protein: 4-6 grams
- Sodium: 200-300 mg (depending on cake mix)
Conclusion
The Elvis Presley Cake, or Jailhouse Rock Cake, is a dessert that’s more than just the sum of its parts. It’s a nostalgic trip, a comforting indulgence, and a celebration of simple pleasures. Its ease of preparation makes it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, while its vibrant flavors and moist texture guarantee a delighted audience. The cold, sweet refreshment, the creamy decadence, and the nutty crunch come together in a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect cake to bring to a potluck, serve at a barbecue, or simply enjoy on a lazy afternoon. The Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of edible history, a taste of Southern charm, and a sweet tribute to the King himself. So, go ahead, “don’t be cruel” to yourself – bake this cake and let the “good times roll!”
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cake mix?
A: Yes, while a white cake mix is traditional for the Elvis Presley Cake, you can certainly experiment with other flavors. A yellow cake mix would also work well, adding a richer, more buttery flavor. Even a lemon cake mix could be an interesting twist, complementing the pineapple. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it could still be delicious!
Q2: I don’t like pecans. Can I substitute another nut?
A: Absolutely! Pecans are a classic choice, but you can easily substitute them with other nuts based on your preference. Walnuts would be a good alternative, providing a similar texture and slightly more bitter flavor. Macadamia nuts would offer a richer, more buttery taste. Even chopped almonds or hazelnuts could work well. Just make sure to crush the nuts to a similar size as the pecans for consistent texture.
Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake is actually better when made ahead of time! The chilling process allows the flavors to meld together and the frosting to firm up, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dessert. You can bake the cake and prepare the frosting a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q4: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the Elvis Presley Cake, but it’s best to do so without the pecan topping. The pecans can become soggy after thawing. Wrap the frosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Sprinkle the remaining pecans on top after thawing.
Q5: What if I don’t have crushed pineapple? Can I use pineapple chunks?
A: While crushed pineapple is preferred because it distributes more evenly throughout the cake and sauce, you can use pineapple chunks as a substitute. Just make sure to chop the chunks into very small pieces before adding them to the saucepan. You may also need to simmer the mixture for a slightly longer period to ensure the pineapple releases its juices and softens properly. Consider using a food processor to pulse the chunks for a better texture.
