The Best Elvis Presley Sheet Cake Recipe

Elvis Presley was known for his love of rich, indulgent food, and this cake is no exception. The Elvis Presley Sheet Cake Recipe is a soft and flavorful dessert topped with a delicious pineapple glaze, creamy pudding, and a smooth cream cheese frosting. It is said to be inspired by the King’s favorite flavors, making it a nostalgic treat for fans and dessert lovers alike.

You might be wondering: Why is it called Elvis Presley Cake? The combination of moist yellow cake, sweet pineapple, and creamy topping is believed to have been one of Elvis’s favorite desserts. It perfectly embodies the decadent, Southern-style comfort food that he enjoyed.

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert for family gatherings, birthdays, or just a special treat, this Elvis Presley sheet cake recipe is an excellent choice. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a cake that is worthy of the King himself.

What Makes Elvis Presley Cake Special?

This dessert stands out due to its unique layers and textures. Each component plays a vital role in creating a rich and satisfying bite.

• The base: A classic yellow cake that provides a light yet buttery foundation.
• The pineapple glaze: A simple, sweet topping made with crushed pineapple and sugar that soaks into the cake, adding moisture and a subtle tang.
• The pudding layer: A smooth vanilla pudding that enhances the creamy texture of the cake.
• The cream cheese frosting: A rich and slightly tangy frosting that balances the sweetness of the cake.
• The nutty topping: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top for a slight crunch and depth of flavor.

Now, let’s get into the details of making this iconic dessert.

Elvis Presley Sheet Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Yellow cake mix	1 box
Eggs	As per cake mix instructions
Vegetable oil	As per cake mix instructions
Water	As per cake mix instructions
Crushed pineapple (with juice)	1 can (20 oz)
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Vanilla pudding mix	1 package (3.4 oz)
Cold milk	2 cups
Cream cheese, softened	8 oz
Powdered sugar	2 cups
Whipped topping (Cool Whip)	8 oz
Chopped pecans or walnuts	½ cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions. Most yellow cake mixes require eggs, vegetable oil, and water, so follow the specific measurements provided on the box.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure a uniform bake.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking, as this cake should remain soft and moist.
5. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool slightly. While the cake is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes across the surface. These holes will help absorb the pineapple glaze, adding extra moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice) and granulated sugar.
2. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 5 minutes, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Once the glaze thickens slightly, remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
4. Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the warm cake. The liquid will seep into the cake through the holes, infusing it with a fruity sweetness.
5. Let the cake cool completely before adding the next layers. This step is crucial, as adding pudding or frosting to a warm cake can cause them to melt.

Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth.
2. Allow the pudding to sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. It should be creamy but spreadable.
3. Spread the pudding evenly over the cooled cake, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
4. Place the cake in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the pudding to firm up before adding the frosting.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
2. Gently fold in the whipped topping (Cool Whip), ensuring the mixture remains light and airy. Avoid overmixing.
3. Spread the frosting evenly over the pudding layer. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even surface.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

1. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
2. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the layers to set and enhances the overall flavor.
3. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve.

Elvis Presley Cake Ideas and Variations

This recipe can be customized in various ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some ideas:

• Elvis Presley Cake with Pudding and Bananas: Add a layer of sliced bananas between the pudding and frosting for a nod to Elvis’s famous peanut butter and banana sandwiches.
• Jailhouse Rock Elvis Presley Cake: Decorate the cake with black and white stripes made from chocolate drizzle to pay tribute to Elvis’s hit song “Jailhouse Rock.”
• Chocolate Elvis Presley Cake: Swap the yellow cake mix for a chocolate cake mix for a richer flavor.
• Caramel Elvis Presley Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.

FAQs About Elvis Presley Sheet Cake

Why is it called Elvis Presley Cake?

This cake is said to be inspired by Elvis’s favorite flavors, particularly pineapple and creamy textures, making it a fitting tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a cake mix?

Yes! If you prefer homemade cake, you can bake a classic yellow cake from scratch using flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and baking powder.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to include some extra liquid (pineapple juice or simple syrup) to maintain the cake’s moist texture.

Conclusion: A Cake Worthy of the King

The Elvis Presley Sheet Cake Recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that captures the indulgent, nostalgic flavors of the King’s era. With its moist yellow cake, sweet pineapple topping, creamy pudding layer, and rich frosting, this cake is perfect for any gathering.

Now it’s your turn to bring a little rock ‘n’ roll to your kitchen. Follow this recipe, experiment with fun variations, and enjoy a slice of Elvis Presley’s favorite cake.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience and any custom twists you added in the comments!