Introduction
Pig Pickin’ Cake is a beloved Southern classic known for its light texture, bright citrus flavor, and creamy pineapple frosting. Traditionally served at summer gatherings, barbecues, and celebrations, this cake is refreshing, easy to make, and always a crowd favorite. Its combination of mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and fluffy whipped frosting makes it irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Cake
1 box yellow cake mix
4 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, undrained
For the Frosting
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
1. Make the Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two round cake pans.
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and mandarin oranges with juice.
Beat until smooth and oranges are slightly broken up.
Pour batter into prepared pan(s).
Bake according to cake mix directions, about 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cake cool completely.
2. Prepare the Frosting
In a bowl, mix instant pudding powder with crushed pineapple and juice.
Fold in whipped topping gently until fully combined.
Refrigerate frosting for 10–15 minutes to slightly thicken.
3. Frost the Cake
Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Description
The Ultimate Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is moist, fluffy, and bursting with fruity flavor. The cake itself is light and citrusy from the mandarin oranges, while the frosting is cool, creamy, and perfectly sweet with pineapple goodness. Every bite is refreshing and soft, making it ideal for warm weather gatherings.
Tips
Make sure the cake is fully cooled before frosting.
Do not drain the fruit; the juice adds moisture and flavor.
Chill the cake before serving for best texture.
Use a serrated knife for clean slices.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
Variations
Coconut Pig Pickin’ Cake: Add shredded coconut to the frosting.
Layer Cake Version: Bake in two round pans and frost between layers.
Orange Cake Mix: Use orange cake mix for extra citrus flavor.
Cupcake Version: Bake as cupcakes and frost individually.
Light Version: Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
Correction
If frosting is too runny:
Chill longer or fold in extra whipped topping.
If cake is too dense:
Avoid overmixing the batter.
If cake sticks to pan:
Grease well and line with parchment paper.
Enjoy
Enjoy this Ultimate Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake chilled and creamy, perfect for parties, picnics, and family celebrations. Its bright flavors and light texture make it a timeless dessert everyone loves.