Growing up, my grandmother would often make this cake for special occasions. The aroma of the baking cake filling the house was always a sure sign that a celebration was near. I remember eagerly watching her poke holes in the freshly baked cake, then watching the pineapple mixture seep into every nook and cranny, ensuring every bite was moist and flavorful. The creamy frosting was the perfect finishing touch, making each slice melt in your mouth.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Elvis Presley or simply someone who enjoys a delicious and easy-to-make dessert, this sheet cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this timeless dessert.
Elvis Presley Sheet Cake
Ingredients
CAKE
1 box yellow cake mix
1 box vanilla pudding 3-ounce box that’s not sugar-free
4 eggs
1/2 cup oil
1 cup milk
1 can crushed pineapple 16 ounces, undrained
1 cup sugar
FROSTING
1 package cream cheese 8 ounces, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup butter softened to room temperature
3 cups confectioner’s sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
(You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the frosting if you like)
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, eggs, oil, and milk. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for one minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate any dry ingredients that may have stuck to the sides. Continue beating for an additional two minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Pineapple Mixture: While the cake is baking, place the undrained crushed pineapple and sugar into a medium saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium-high heat, bringing it just to a boil. Stir constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside.
Add Pineapple Mixture to Cake: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven. While the cake is still hot, use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Pour the hot pineapple mixture over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Allow the cake to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar, about one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated. If desired, stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, drop dollops of the frosting onto the top of the cake. Carefully spread the frosting to cover the entire surface, being gentle to avoid disturbing the pineapple layer underneath. If desired, sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the top of the frosting for a decorative touch.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into squares and serve. The combination of the moist cake, sweet pineapple, and rich frosting is sure to delight anyone who tries it.
Variations and Substitutions
Cake Mix: While the classic recipe calls for a yellow cake mix, you can experiment with different flavors such as white or even spice cake mix for a unique twist.
Pineapple: If you’re not a fan of pineapple, consider using a can of fruit cocktail or even mandarin oranges for a different fruity flavor.
Nuts: For those with nut allergies or simply not a fan of pecans, you can omit them from the frosting or substitute with walnuts or almonds.
Frosting: Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the frosting enhances its flavor, but it’s entirely optional.
Lighter Option: For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and replace the oil in the cake with applesauce.
Conclusion
Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the rich, moist texture makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. The pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy frosting, making every bite a delightful experience.
This cake is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring a piece of nostalgia and joy to your table. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, it’s sure to be a hit. The versatility of the recipe allows for numerous variations, ensuring that it can be tailored to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
So next time you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s easy to make yet impressively delicious, give this Elvis Presley Sheet Cake a try. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes the simplest recipes can bring the most joy and create the best memories.
