Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) is the dessert I reach for when I want something wildly simple, wildly retro, and guaranteed to make people ask for seconds. Maybe you forgot you promised to bring a dessert to the office, or maybe you just want a cake that tastes like sunshine and comfort. This is the one. It’s a soft yellow cake that drinks up a sweet pineapple syrup and gets slathered with a creamy frosting that melts like a dream. No fancy techniques. Just good ingredients and some patience while the cake soaks. Ready to bake like a legend?
The Story Behind This Recipe
From my kitchen to yours—Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) mixes everyday ingredients with bright flavor. Tested, tasted, and ready for your table. Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) is the dessert I reach for when I want something wildly simple, wildly retro, and guaranteed to make people ask…
Why Youll Love This Recipe
This cake hits the sweet spot between effortless and memorable. You start with a basic yellow cake, then you pour a warm pineapple mixture over the top so it soaks right in. The result is a super moist, juicy bite that never tastes heavy. It’s bright, nostalgic, and honestly a little addictive.
Another win is that it makes people happy. I’ve brought this to cookouts and potlucks, and there’s always that moment where the room gets quiet for a second. Then someone looks up and goes, “Oh, wow.” That’s this cake. If you like simple baking and big flavor, you’ll be thrilled. And if you want more easy cakes to keep on rotation, take a peek at my collection of favorites right here: cake recipe ideas.
“I made this for my neighbor’s birthday and it disappeared in 10 minutes. My husband asked if I could ‘accidentally’ make it every weekend.”
Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert. The longer it chills, the better it tastes. When a cake improves overnight, that’s an automatic favorite in my house. And yes, I keep a corner tucked away for breakfast the next day. Don’t judge me.
How to Make This Elvis Presley Cake
Let’s keep it practical and straightforward. The batter is classic yellow cake. The magic comes from the simple pineapple syrup you pour over the warm cake, and the creamy frosting that seals everything together.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 ounces), plus ingredients listed on the box
- 1 can crushed pineapple in juice (20 ounces)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping or an extra 1/2 to 1 cup powdered sugar for a thicker frosting
- Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
Directions
- Bake the cake: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package directions. Bake in a 9×13 pan until a toothpick comes out clean. Keep the cake in the pan.
- Make the pineapple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine crushed pineapple with all its juice and the granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle boil for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring now and then. It should be glossy and syrupy but not thick.
- Soak the cake: While the cake is still warm, poke lots of holes all over the top with a fork or skewer. Pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake. Let it cool to room temp, then chill for at least 2 hours to fully absorb.
- Mix the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat again until creamy. Fold in whipped topping if you want a lighter, cloudlike texture.
- Frost and finish: Spread frosting over the chilled cake. Sprinkle nuts on top if you like a little crunch. Chill again for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Tip from my kitchen: if you enjoy playful dessert mashups, you might also love the creamy textures in this cannoli poke cake. It’s got that same cozy, crowd-pleasing vibe.
And if anyone asks, yes, this whole flavorful classic is officially called Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake). It deserves the spotlight.
Tips and Suggestions to Make The Perfect Jailhouse Rock Cake
Keep these small tweaks in mind and your cake will sing every time.
Flavor Twists
Want it a touch zesty? Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting for brightness. Prefer extra vanilla? Use a splash more vanilla extract. Nuts add texture, but toasted coconut is also fantastic. I’ve even drizzled a tiny bit of melted white chocolate over the top for a party look. If your style leans toward easy, fruit-forward desserts, bookmark this simple favorite too: 3-ingredient peach cobbler dump cake. Different dessert, same low-stress energy.
If you want more creamy fruit desserts that don’t take all afternoon, try these little parfait vibes as well: they are a quick win when you need something sweet without a lot of effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Make the cake a day ahead so the pineapple really settles in. This dessert stays lovely in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep it covered to prevent the frosting from drying out. For freezing, I like to freeze the unfrosted, soaked cake for up to a month, then thaw and finish frosting the day I serve it. It’s a solid plan if you’re prepping for a party. For more coffee cake style bakes that keep well, you might enjoy this cozy apple pie filling coffee cake.
And yes, leftovers are perfect for breakfast with a strong coffee. Life’s short. Have cake.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
This is an estimate based on 12 servings from a 9×13 pan and will vary with ingredient brands. Expect roughly 420 to 470 calories per slice. About 6 to 7 grams of protein, 18 to 22 grams of fat, and 58 to 65 grams of carbs. Sugar content is on the higher side because of the pineapple syrup and frosting, so smaller slices are a smart move. The bright side is that it’s super satisfying, so a modest square goes a long way. As always, adjust to your needs and enjoy mindfully.
Pans to Use for Making Jailhouse Rock Cake
- 9×13 Pan: Classic choice, best for soaking. Bake as directed on the box. Easiest to transport and serve.
- Quarter Sheet Pan: Slightly thinner cake with more syrup coverage per bite. Great for parties.
- Two 8-inch Rounds: Bake times will be a few minutes shorter. You’ll still poke holes and soak both layers. Frost between and on top. Chill well before slicing.
- 12 to 18 Cupcakes: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Poke each cupcake and spoon the pineapple syrup on top. Frost once cooled. Messy but fun.
- Bundt Pan: You can make it work, but soaking is trickier. If you love a Bundt moment, check out something designed for the shape like this butterfinger bundt cake and keep Elvis for a 9×13 pan.
If you’re experimenting with other fruity classics, there’s also a lovely old-school bake here: apricot fruit cake. Totally different flavor personality, same homey comfort.
Common Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, but you’ll need the juice to create the syrup effect. If using fresh, add a splash of pineapple or apple juice to help it simmer into a pourable syrup.
Do I have to use nuts on top?
No. Nuts are optional. Toasted coconut or even a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers works great for crunch.
Can I skip the whipped topping in the frosting?
Absolutely. Just add a little extra powdered sugar to reach a spreadable consistency. It will be richer and a bit thicker.
How long should I let the cake chill?
At least 2 hours after soaking, and another 30 minutes after frosting. Overnight is best for the most even texture.
Is this the same as a poke cake?
Pretty much. You poke holes and pour syrup over, so it behaves like a poke cake with classic retro flair. That’s why people call it Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) with a smile.
A Sweet Sendoff for Your Baking Playlist
When you want a dessert that tastes like sunshine, nostalgia, and pure comfort, Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) is the move. It’s simple to bake, easy to transport, and seriously hard to mess up. Give it time to chill and it rewards you with a tender crumb and bright pineapple flavor wrapped in creamy frosting. If you like to compare versions or read more about the story behind it, check out this take from Maria’s Mixing Bowl Elvis Presley Cake and a classic Elvis Presley Cake Recipe for another angle. Now cue up your favorite rock and roll playlist, tie on an apron, and bake the cake that never goes out of style.
Elvis Presley Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package directions. Bake in a 9×13 pan until a toothpick comes out clean. Keep the cake in the pan.
- In a small saucepan, combine crushed pineapple with all its juice and the granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle boil for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until glossy and syrupy.
- While the cake is still warm, poke lots of holes all over the top with a fork or skewer. Pour the hot pineapple mixture evenly over the cake. Let it cool to room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat again until creamy.
- Fold in whipped topping for a lighter texture.
- Spread frosting over the chilled cake. Sprinkle nuts on top if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
