Jailhouse Rock Cake – Easy Elvis Presley Pineapple Dessert

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There’s something magical about a nostalgic Southern dessert served at a family gathering, church potluck, or holiday table. Elvis Presley Cake—often lovingly called Jailhouse Rock Cake—brings that magic to life with its ultra-moist pineapple base and luscious cream cheese frosting. Inspired by the larger-than-life charm of Elvis Presley, this cake captures the spirit of comfort, indulgence, and simple pleasure. This recipe has long been associated with Southern kitchens where boxed cake mix met creative home baking traditions. The first time I tasted it, it was served chilled on a warm afternoon, the sweet pineapple soaking into every crumb. One bite and it was clear—this wasn’t just cake. It was a celebration of flavor, memory, and that unmistakable rock-and-roll flair. If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make yet unforgettable, this Elvis Presley Cake is your answer.

What Is Elvis Presley Cake?

Elvis Presley Cake is a moist yellow cake infused with crushed pineapple and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Unlike layered celebration cakes, this one is typically baked in a 9×13-inch pan, making it perfect for slicing and serving at gatherings. The magic happens when warm pineapple topping is poured over a freshly baked cake, allowing the juices to soak deep into the crumb. Once chilled, the cake becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy tang that balances the sweetness of the fruit. The result is a dessert that feels nostalgic yet timeless—sweet, creamy, fruity, and irresistibly soft.

Why You’ll Love This Jailhouse Rock Cake

Ultra Moist Texture The crushed pineapple ensures every bite is tender and saturated with flavor. Simple Ingredients This recipe uses pantry staples and a boxed cake mix, making it beginner-friendly. Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert It tastes even better after chilling, which makes it ideal for parties and holidays. Crowd Favorite Its sweet, creamy flavor appeals to both kids and adults. No Complicated Decorating Required Just spread the frosting and chill—no piping bags needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make this classic Elvis Presley Cake. Measurements are precise for consistent results.

For the Cake:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow cake mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water

For the Pineapple Topping:

  • 1 can (20 oz / 567 g) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped pecans (optional but traditional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
Beat with an electric mixer for 2 minutes until smooth and well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

2. Make the Pineapple Topping

While the cake is baking, combine in a saucepan:
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.  

3. Soak the Cake

Once the cake comes out of the oven, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface. Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature.

4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat:
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Beat until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Gradually add:
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
Mix until fully incorporated. Stir in:
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup chopped pecans if desired.

5. Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to develop and makes slicing easier.

Tips for the Best Elvis Presley Cake

Use Pineapple in Juice, Not Syrup

Juice keeps the flavor bright without making the cake overly sweet.

Don’t Drain the Pineapple

The juice is essential for soaking into the cake and creating moisture.

Let the Cake Cool Before Frosting

If the cake is too warm, the cream cheese frosting will melt.

Chill Thoroughly

The texture improves dramatically after refrigeration.

Customize It

Add toasted coconut flakes or swap pecans for walnuts if desired.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

This cake must be stored in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting.
  • Store covered for up to 5 days.
  • For best texture, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
  • You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Thaw, then add frosting before serving.

Variations to Try

Coconut Elvis Cake Add 1/2 cup (40 g) shredded coconut to the pineapple mixture. Strawberry Twist Layer thinly sliced strawberries over the frosting. Lighter Version Use reduced-fat cream cheese and reduce powdered sugar to 2 1/2 cups (300 g).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it called Elvis Presley Cake?

Elvis Presley Cake earned its name because it embodies the rich, Southern-style flavors often associated with traditional Southern desserts. While there’s no official documentation proving it was a personal favorite, the cake became popular during the height of Elvis-themed nostalgia. Home bakers began naming indulgent Southern sweets after the King of Rock and Roll, especially desserts featuring fruit and creamy toppings. The cake’s bold sweetness and comforting texture reflect the kind of dessert that fits right into Southern gatherings, church socials, and family reunions. Its association with Elvis likely grew from that cultural connection. Over time, the name stuck, and it became a beloved recipe shared across generations. Whether or not it was served at Graceland, the cake certainly captures a classic Southern spirit that fans appreciate.

2. Can I make Elvis Presley Cake from scratch instead of using boxed mix?

Yes, you can absolutely make this cake from scratch if you prefer. Substitute the boxed mix with a homemade yellow cake batter made from:
  • 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 3/4 cups (350 g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Prepare the homemade batter as you would a standard yellow cake. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan and follow the same pineapple soaking and frosting steps. The boxed mix version is popular because it simplifies preparation and guarantees consistent texture. However, the scratch version adds a richer flavor and slightly denser crumb. Both methods produce delicious results.

3. Can this cake be made ahead for parties?

Absolutely. In fact, Elvis Presley Cake is even better when made ahead. After adding the pineapple topping and cream cheese frosting, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the pineapple juices to fully absorb into the cake and enhances the flavor. Because it’s served chilled, it’s perfect for preparing the day before a gathering. Simply keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid to prevent it from absorbing refrigerator odors. If transporting, keep the cake chilled in a cooler with ice packs. Its sturdy 9×13-inch format makes it easy to travel with and serve directly from the pan.

4. Can I freeze Elvis Presley Cake?

Yes, but with a few considerations. The best way to freeze it is before adding the cream cheese frosting. Bake the cake, add the pineapple topping, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, prepare and spread the fresh cream cheese frosting. Freezing the fully frosted cake is possible, but the frosting texture may slightly change once thawed. For best presentation and texture, frosting after thawing is recommended.

Final Thoughts

Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of Southern comfort layered with sweetness, nostalgia, and pure indulgence. Its simplicity is part of its charm. With just a handful of pantry staples and straightforward steps, you can create a cake that tastes like it took hours of effort. The crushed pineapple transforms an ordinary yellow cake into something extraordinary, soaking into every bite with juicy flavor. The cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, tangy richness that perfectly balances the sweetness. And when chilled, the texture becomes irresistibly soft and luscious. This cake shines at potlucks, birthdays, holidays, and Sunday dinners. It’s easy enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to serve guests. The make-ahead convenience makes it a stress-free choice for busy schedules. If you’re looking for a dependable dessert that delivers consistent results and earns rave reviews, this Jailhouse Rock Cake belongs in your recipe collection. Bake it once, and it just might become your signature dish—the one friends and family request again and again. Print

Jailhouse Rock Cake – Easy Elvis Presley Pineapple Dessert

Print Recipe

A rich, old-fashioned Southern yellow cake baked until golden and tender, then generously soaked in a luscious pineapple glaze that seeps into every crumb. Topped with a thick layer of smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting, this crowd-pleasing dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweet tropical fruit and creamy indulgence. Ideal for potlucks, holiday spreads, or preparing ahead for a stress-free, flavor-packed treat that only gets better with time.

  • Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:


  • 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow cake mix


  • 3 large eggs


  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil


  • 1 cup (240 ml) water


For the Pineapple Topping:


  • 1 can (20 oz / 567 g) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)


  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar


For the Cream Cheese Frosting:


  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened


  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened


  • 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar


  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract


  • 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped pecans (optional)


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • In a large bowl, beat cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water for 2 minutes. Pour into prepared pan and bake 28–32 minutes.

  • In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple (with juice) and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil and simmer 3–4 minutes.

  • Poke holes in the hot cake using a wooden spoon handle. Pour warm pineapple mixture evenly over cake. Cool completely.

  • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually and mix until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.

  • Spread frosting over cooled cake and sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.

  • Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best flavor and texture, chill overnight before serving. The cake can be frozen unfrosted for up to 2 months. Add frosting after thawing for best results.

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