This legendary cake captures the bold flavors loved by Elvis himself—pineapple’s zing, cream cheese’s luscious tang, and crunchy pecans—all layered into a moist, crowd-pleasing sheet cake. Inspired by Southern charm and a retro palate, this recipe adds a therapeutic spin using natural sweeteners, spiced wellness boosters, and optional adaptogens to make it indulgent yet nourishing.
Traditionally served at gatherings, this cake is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or anyone seeking nostalgic comfort food with a functional nutrition upgrade. It’s easy to prepare, keeps well for days, and sparks joyful cravings every time it’s sliced.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
Cake Base:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (or substitute with sprouted wheat or almond flour)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 pinch Himalayan pink salt
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- ¾ cup natural cane sugar or coconut sugar
- 2 large pasture-raised eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ tsp Ceylon cinnamon or ground cardamom for warmth
- Optional: 1 tbsp maca root powder (for hormonal support and energy)
Frosting:
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grass-fed butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered jaggery or organic icing sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla
- Optional: 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or coconut cream (for tang and texture)
Toppings:
- ½ cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted)
- Sprinkle of shredded unsweetened coconut (optional)
- Drizzle of raw honey or date syrup (optional)
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prep the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and optional spices or adaptogens. Set aside.
- Blend wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light. Add vanilla and crushed pineapple (juice included). Stir gently to combine.
- Combine & pour: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir just until smooth—don’t overmix. Pour into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake to perfection: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan before frosting.
🎨 Frosting & Assembly:
- Whip the frosting: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add lemon juice, vanilla, and sugar. Continue beating until silky smooth. For extra creaminess, blend in the yogurt or coconut cream.
- Frost generously: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting across the surface, using swooping motions for that signature Southern hospitality look.
- Top it off: Scatter toasted pecans generously. For added texture and flair, sprinkle shredded coconut or drizzle with raw honey.
🌿 Nutritional Notes & Healing Highlights:
- Crushed pineapple delivers bromelain, an enzyme linked to anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
- Maca and cardamom amplify energy and digestion.
- Cream cheese + Greek yogurt balance probiotics and taste.
- Pecans offer heart-healthy fats and antioxidants.
This cake bridges culinary joy and healing intention—just the way you love to inspire through food, Hassan. Want a gluten-free or vegan rendition next? Or maybe a coconut flour riff with aloe-infused icing? Let’s remix this rock ‘n roll dessert to match any occasion or dietary path. 🎶🍰