Here’s a detailed guide for making Elvis Presley Sheet Cake, a delightful dessert inspired by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself. This cake is known for its rich, moist texture and unique flavor, making it a timeless favorite!
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### **Introduction**
Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is a moist, tender cake often flavored with pineapple and topped with a creamy coconut and pecan frosting. The cake is said to have been one of Elvis’s favorite desserts, celebrated for its simple yet indulgent combination of flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a special treat for fans of classic Southern baking.
### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
The Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is deeply rooted in Southern American cuisine, where cakes featuring tropical fruits and nuts are popular. Named after the legendary Elvis Presley, who was known for his love of rich and decadent foods, this cake embodies the nostalgic charm of mid-20th-century desserts. It has become a staple at Southern celebrations and is cherished for its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing taste.
### **Ingredients Quantity**
**Cake:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice (20-ounce can)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Frosting:**
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup evaporated milk or heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
### **Optional Additions**
– Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
– A handful of chopped maraschino cherries mixed into the frosting for a touch of color and sweetness.
– A splash of rum or coconut extract in the frosting for extra depth of flavor.
### **Tips for Success**
– Ensure the pineapple is not too wet; lightly drain if necessary, but keep the juice for moisture.
– Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
– Let the frosting thicken slightly before spreading on the cake to ensure it sets nicely.
– For a more intense coconut flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut before adding it to the frosting.
### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Cake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. **Mix the Batter:** In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, eggs, baking soda, crushed pineapple with juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
3. **Bake the Cake:** Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack.
4. **Make the Frosting:** In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, evaporated milk, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
5. **Frost the Cake:** Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving.
### **Description**
Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is a delightfully moist cake with a tender crumb, thanks to the crushed pineapple in the batter. The frosting, rich with butter, coconut, and pecans, adds a creamy, crunchy texture that complements the cake perfectly. It’s sweet, slightly tangy, and filled with a mix of tropical flavors that make each bite uniquely satisfying.
### **Nutritional Information** (per serving, based on 20 servings)
– **Calories:** Approximately 300
– **Protein:** 3g
– **Carbohydrates:** 40g
– **Fat:** 15g
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugars:** 30g
### **Conclusion**
Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the spirit of classic Southern baking. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion, especially when you want to impress with a dessert that’s as charming as it is delicious.
### **Recommendation and Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
To make this cake a bit lighter, you can reduce the sugar in the cake and frosting, or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking. Consider substituting some of the butter with Greek yogurt or applesauce in the cake for a lower fat content. Embrace this cake as an occasional indulgence, savoring the nostalgia and joy it brings. Balancing such treats with a healthy diet can make enjoying them even more special.
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Let me know if you need any adjustments or additional details for this recipe!