Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake)

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Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) Recipe Guide

Introduction

Elvis Presley Cake, also known as Jailhouse Rock Cake, is a Southern dessert named after the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself. This delicious treat features a moist pineapple-flavored cake topped with a rich cream cheese frosting and a generous sprinkle of pecans or coconut. It’s a dessert that embodies the indulgence and charm of Southern hospitality, perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or simply treating yourself to a slice of nostalgia.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The cake’s association with Elvis Presley stems from his love of Southern food and desserts. While there’s no concrete evidence that Elvis ate this particular cake, its rich flavors and decadent toppings reflect the indulgent style of Southern cuisine he adored. The nickname “Jailhouse Rock Cake” is a nod to one of Elvis’s iconic hits, making it a fun and memorable dessert tied to his legendary status.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cake:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar

For the Topping:

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or shredded coconut (optional)

Optional Additions

  • Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Fruit Garnish: Top with maraschino cherries for a retro touch.
  • Cinnamon: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon into the cream cheese frosting for warmth.
  • Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter or as a topping for an extra treat.

Tips for Success

  1. Pineapple Drainage: Use the pineapple with its juice for maximum moisture, but don’t add extra liquid beyond what’s called for in the recipe.
  2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened for a smooth and creamy frosting.
  3. Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender.
  4. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.
  5. Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), and granulated sugar. Stir until fully incorporated.
  3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
  4. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
  5. Frost the Cake: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
  6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or shredded coconut over the frosting, if desired.
  7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Description

Elvis Presley Cake is a moist, tropical-inspired dessert that’s both light and rich. The pineapple-infused cake base is delightfully sweet and tangy, while the creamy, smooth frosting adds a decadent touch. Topped with crunchy pecans or sweet coconut, each bite offers a blend of textures and flavors reminiscent of Southern charm.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 38g
  • Sodium: 340mg

Conclusion

Elvis Presley Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Southern flavors and nostalgia for a bygone era of rock ‘n’ roll. Easy to make and universally loved, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion that calls for something sweet and memorable.

Recommendation

Serve this cake chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this cake is unapologetically rich, you can make healthier adjustments without sacrificing flavor. Substitute Greek yogurt for some of the butter in the frosting, use a sugar-free cake mix, or replace granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or coconut sugar. These small changes let you enjoy the essence of this classic dessert with a lighter twist.

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