Elvis Presley Sheet Cake

In the world of desserts, some cakes stand out not only for their flavor but also for their story. The Elvis Presley Sheet Cake, named after the King of Rock and Roll, is one of those iconic creations. Sweet, tropical, and indulgent, this cake is said to have been one of Elvis’s favorites, featuring crushed pineapple baked right into the batter and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting.

Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or Sunday suppers, this cake is easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and carries a little rock-and-roll flair.

📜 A Little History

While no one knows for sure if Elvis truly ate this exact cake on repeat, the legend ties back to his well-documented love for indulgent Southern comfort foods. Much like his famous peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich, this cake embodies richness and nostalgia. Over the years, it has become a beloved retro recipe, often passed down in community cookbooks and church gatherings.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box yellow cake mix
1 box vanilla pudding (3 oz, not sugar-free)
4 eggs
½ cup oil
1 cup milk
1 can (16 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
1 cup sugar

For the Frosting

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
3 cups confectioner’s sugar
½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil, milk, pineapple (with juice), and sugar until smooth.
Pour into the prepared pan and bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

2. Make the Frosting

In another bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Stir in vanilla, if using.
Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Sprinkle with chopped pecans, if desired.

⭐ Tips for the Best Elvis Presley Cake

Pineapple is Key: Don’t drain the can! The juice adds flavor and keeps the cake moist.
Frost When Cool: If the cake is warm, the cream cheese frosting will melt. Patience pays off.
Nutty Twist: Pecans add crunch, but you can also use walnuts or even toasted coconut for a Southern flair.
Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. Store in the fridge overnight.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or at room temperature with a hot cup of coffee.
Cut into squares for parties or potlucks — it’s a great crowd-feeder.
For a real Elvis touch, pair with a side of sliced bananas.