Pig Pickin’ Cake Recipe
Table of Contents
Pig Pickin’ Cake
If you’re looking for a light, citrusy dessert that perfectly complements any barbecue or Southern-style feast, Pig Pickin’ Cake is the answer. This nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat is famous for its moist texture, fluffy whipped topping, and refreshing bursts of mandarin orange and pineapple flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard cookout, potluck, or holiday gathering, this easy-to-make cake is always a hit.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 25–30 minutes | 2 hours 45 minutes (includes chilling) | 12 servings |
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, undrained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until well blended.
Add the undrained mandarin oranges and mix until the fruit breaks apart and is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pans before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
In a separate bowl, mix the instant vanilla pudding powder with the crushed pineapple (including the juice) until well combined.
Fold in the whipped topping until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake layers. If using round cake pans, stack the layers with frosting in between.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with additional mandarin orange slices or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Estimated values based on 12 servings:
- Calories: ~280
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 27g
- Protein: 3g
Pig Pickin’ Cake
Pig Pickin’ Cake is a classic Southern dessert known for its light and refreshing flavors. Made with a doctored-up yellow cake mix, sweet mandarin oranges, and a creamy pineapple frosting, this cake is simple to prepare yet incredibly delicious. Its fruity and fluffy texture makes it the perfect sweet treat for warm-weather gatherings or special occasions.
