Elvis Presley Sheet Cake – Moist, Decadent, and Banana-Peanut Butter Heaven

If you are looking for a dessert that truly honors the legendary Elvis Presley, this Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is your answer. Bursting with flavors reminiscent of the King’s favorite sandwich – bananas, peanut butter, and chocolate – this cake is rich, moist, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert, this cake combines a soft yellow cake base with layers of creamy peanut butter frosting, sweet pineapple, and sliced bananas, creating a multi-dimensional flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity paired with indulgence. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, even a beginner baker can achieve a cake that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. Follow along as we break down each ingredient, explain its role, and guide you through creating this iconic dessert from start to finish.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): Provides a soft, fluffy, and neutral base that complements the bold flavors of peanut butter, bananas, and pineapple. Using a high-quality mix ensures consistent results every time.
Vanilla Pudding (1 box, 3 oz): Enhances the cake’s moisture and adds richness, making each bite creamy and decadent.
Eggs (4 large): Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure while maintaining a tender crumb.
Vegetable Oil (1/2 cup): Adds moistness without altering the flavor, ensuring the cake stays soft for days.
Milk (1 cup): Hydrates the dry ingredients and activates the pudding mix for optimal texture.
Crushed Pineapple (1 can, 16 oz, undrained): Introduces natural sweetness and a subtle tropical flavor, keeping the cake moist and vibrant.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Adds extra sweetness to balance the banana and peanut butter flavors.
Bananas (2-3 ripe, sliced): Impart natural sweetness and a creamy texture that harmonizes with the peanut butter frosting.
Peanut Butter (1 cup, creamy): Adds a rich, nutty flavor that is central to the “Elvis” taste profile.
Powdered Sugar (2 cups, for frosting): Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides richness and smoothness for the frosting, enhancing flavor and texture.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavors in both cake and frosting, adding aromatic depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, eggs, oil, and milk. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and homogeneous. Scrape down the sides to ensure no dry pockets remain.

Step 3: Fold in Pineapple

Gently fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice). The pineapple not only adds moisture but also enhances the tropical sweetness that complements the peanut butter and bananas.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting.

Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a medium bowl, cream together butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating continuously until creamy and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top. Layer sliced bananas on top of the frosting for added flavor and visual appeal. Optionally, drizzle a little melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature. This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Tips for Perfecting Your Elvis Presley Sheet Cake

Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and creamy texture.
Do not overmix the cake batter; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
If you prefer a fluffier frosting, whip it longer with an electric mixer to incorporate more air.
For extra indulgence, sprinkle chopped peanuts or toasted coconut on top.
Make the cake a day in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Variations to Try

Chocolate Banana Cake: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the cake mix for a chocolaty twist.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg substitutes.
Mini Sheet Cake: Divide the batter into smaller pans for portion-friendly servings.
Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if allergies are a concern.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Pair with coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon treat.
Top with fresh berries for color and added freshness.
Cut into bite-size squares for parties or potlucks – perfect finger food.

Conclusion

This Elvis Presley Sheet Cake is a true homage to the King, combining the perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and nostalgia in every bite. From the soft, moist yellow cake to the creamy peanut butter frosting and luscious bananas, this dessert is guaranteed to impress at any gathering. With easy-to-follow steps, helpful tips, and flexible variations, anyone can recreate this iconic dessert at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, this cake delivers on all fronts – flavor, texture, and presentation. Indulge, share, and savor the magic of this legendary dessert.