Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake)

History

Elvis Presley was famous not just for his music but also for his love of Southern comfort foods. This cake, often called Jailhouse Rock Cake, is a rich and tropical dessert that blends moist white cake with pineapple and a cream cheese–pecan topping. While it may not have been invented by Elvis himself, it quickly became associated with him because of his fondness for pineapple, cream cheese, and decadent sweets.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box White Cake Mix (plus ingredients required on the box: eggs, oil, water)
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (for extra flavor, optional)

Pineapple Mixture:

• 1 can (8 oz) Crushed Pineapple with juice
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• ½ tsp Vanilla Extract

Frosting:

• 1 package (8 oz) Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1 stick (½ cup) Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 3–3 ½ cups Powdered Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 cup Chopped Pecans (toasted for extra flavor, optional)

Instructions

Step 1 – Bake the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish (or use parchment).
3. Prepare the white cake mix according to package directions, adding 1 tsp vanilla if desired.
4. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 2 – Pineapple Soak

1. In a medium saucepan, combine crushed pineapple with juice, sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla.
2. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is bubbly and slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
3. While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over with a fork or skewer.
4. Pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, letting it soak in.
5. Allow cake to cool completely.

Step 3 – Frosting

1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until fluffy.
3. Fold in chopped pecans.
4. Spread frosting over the cooled, pineapple-soaked cake.

Serving

• Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
• Slice into squares and enjoy with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk – just like Elvis might have!

Tips & Variations

• Extra tropical twist: Add shredded coconut to the frosting.
• Layer cake version: Bake in two 9-inch rounds and stack with pineapple filling and frosting between.
• Make ahead: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Benefits

• Pineapple provides vitamin C and digestive enzymes (bromelain).
• Pecans add healthy fats and protein.
• Cream cheese makes it indulgent but also gives calcium.
  Of course, this is a dessert – so enjoy it in moderation!

Conclusion

The Elvis Presley Cake is as bold, sweet, and unforgettable as The King himself. A perfect Southern dessert for parties, holidays, or whenever you want to indulge in something rich, fruity, and nostalgic.