This Elvis Presley-inspired pineapple sheet cake uses white cake mix with crushed pineapple stirred into the batter, then a cream cheese frosting with chopped pecans. Prepare the cake mix with the additions listed on its package and cool the baked cake completely before frosting.
Recipe Details
- Pan: 9×13 inches (about 23×33 cm)
- Oven: 350°F (175°C)
- Bake: 25–30 minutes, until the center is done
- Cooling: Cool completely before frosting
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 (18.25 oz) box white cake mix, plus the ingredients listed on its package
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple with its juice
Cream cheese pecan frosting
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
How to Make Pineapple Sheet Cake
Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Make the cake batter
Prepare the white cake mix with the ingredients listed on its package, then stir in the crushed pineapple and its juice. Pour into the prepared pan.
Bake and cool
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
Make the frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar gradually and beat until fluffy. Stir in the vanilla and fold in the chopped pecans.
Frost and serve
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then cut and serve.
Tips and Common Mistakes
- Keep the pineapple juice with the fruit, as the method specifies.
- Follow the cake-mix package for its required additions; amounts vary by mix.
- Use softened cream cheese and butter for a smoother frosting.
- Wait until the cake is fully cool before spreading the frosting.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep the frosted cake covered in the refrigerator because the topping contains cream cheese. Add any extra decorative drizzle close to serving if using the listed variations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I drain the pineapple?
No. This version mixes the 8 oz can of crushed pineapple and its juice into the batter.
Where is the butter used?
The ½ cup softened butter is used with the cream cheese in the frosting.
Can I use other nuts in the frosting?
The listed variations allow chopped walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
Why does the cake have to cool before frosting?
Warm cake can melt and soften the cream cheese frosting, making it harder to spread neatly.