Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a moist white cake with a luscious cream cheese frosting and a topping of crushed pineapple and pecans. This cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the back of the cake mix box (typically water, oil, and eggs)
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 2 ½ cups pecans, crushed
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the back of the cake mix box.
- Prepare the Cake Mix: Follow the instructions on the back of the cake mix box to prepare the batter. This typically involves mixing the cake mix with water, oil, and eggs.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake the cake according to the time specified on the box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Topping
- Combine Pineapple and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice) and 1 cup of granulated sugar.
- Cook the Mixture: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool the Topping: Remove from heat and let the pineapple topping cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the pure vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated and the frosting is smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Spread Pineapple Topping: Once the cake has cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Spread the cooled pineapple topping evenly over the cake, allowing some of the juice to soak into the cake.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the pineapple topping, using a spatula to smooth it out evenly.
- Add the Pecans: Sprinkle the crushed pecans evenly over the top of the frosting, pressing them down gently to help them adhere.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Chill the Cake: For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
- Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for Making Elvis Presley Sheet Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before making the frosting. This will help them blend together smoothly.
- Even Baking: If your cake bakes unevenly, use a serrated knife to level it before adding the toppings and frosting.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Variations: Try adding a teaspoon of coconut extract to the cake batter for a tropical twist, or use chopped walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor.
Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is a delectable dessert that combines the classic flavors of white cake, pineapple, cream cheese, and pecans into one irresistible treat. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home, this cake is sure to become a favorite. With its easy preparation and impressive presentation, you’ll find yourself making this cake again and again. Enjoy!
