Elvis Presley Sheet Cake
If there were ever a dessert that truly captures the spirit of nostalgia, joy, and Southern indulgence, it would be the Elvis Presley Sheet Cake. Beloved for its irresistible blend of sweetness, fruitiness, and creamy decadence, this cake has earned a devoted following. Some say it was inspired by Elvis’s well-known love for pineapple, while others simply regard it as a comforting classic that belongs in every baker’s repertoire.
No matter the origin, this sheet cake is delightfully simple, wonderfully moist, and absolutely unforgettable. Bursting with pineapple flavor and topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting studded with pecans, it’s the kind of treat that invites second helpings—and maybe even a serenade or two.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, hosting a potluck, or simply craving a dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, the Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is a guaranteed hit.
Why This Cake Is So Special
What sets this dessert apart is its brilliant use of crushed pineapple—not just the fruit, but all the juice, too. This ensures the cake stays tender, moist, and infused with bright tropical flavor from edge to edge. Unlike heavier cakes that rely on oil or milk for moisture, this recipe uses pineapple juice as a natural sweetener and hydrator.
And then there’s the frosting: a dreamy cream cheese and butter blend brought to life with vanilla and powdered sugar, all finished with crunchy chopped pecans. It complements the cake perfectly—rich but not overwhelming, sweet but balanced.
Better yet, the entire recipe comes together in a single bowl and bakes in a sheet pan, making it ideal for quick baking and easy serving.
Elvis Presley Sheet Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Cake:
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (8 fl oz / 240 ml) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup (8 oz / 226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs (100 g)
- 1 tsp (5 g) baking soda
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) salt
Frosting:
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
Directions
- Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix gently.
- Fold in crushed pineapple with all the juice.
- Pour batter into a greased 10×15 in (25×38 cm) sheet pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden.
For the frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix until creamy.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Spread frosting over cooled cake and serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 360 kcal per serving
Servings: 20
Tips for the Best Elvis Presley Sheet Cake
- Enhance the pineapple punch.
For even more fruity brightness, brush a little pineapple juice over the warm cake before frosting. The warmth helps the juice soak in, amplifying flavor and moisture. - Let it chill.
Although delicious immediately, this cake becomes even better after resting in the fridge overnight. The flavors meld, the frosting sets beautifully, and the texture becomes irresistibly soft. - Go nuts—or don’t.
Pecans add the perfect crunch, but you can swap them for walnuts or leave them out entirely if you prefer a smoother frosting. - Serve it Southern-style.
Cut generous squares and pair with a glass of sweet tea, iced coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
The Perfect Cake for Any Occasion
Part of this recipe’s charm is just how versatile it is. Sheet cakes are inherently crowd-friendly, making them ideal for birthdays, reunions, holiday gatherings, office parties, or casual weekend treats. The Elvis Presley Sheet Cake, with its blend of classic flavors and homey appeal, feels like comfort food elevated—simple enough for everyday baking but special enough for celebrations.
And because it’s so easy to prepare, even beginner bakers can achieve amazing results. There’s no need for fancy techniques or complicated steps—just straightforward mixing, baking, and frosting that leads to dessert bliss.
Final Thoughts
The Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a sweet slice of Americana. With its tender pineapple-infused crumb and velvety pecan-studded frosting, it evokes memories of family kitchens, handwritten recipe cards, and warm gatherings around the table.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both nostalgic and unforgettable, this cake is ready to take center stage.
