Introduction
Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a cherished Southern dessert that perfectly balances light citrus flavors with a creamy, fruity finish.
Traditionally enjoyed at gatherings, barbecues, and church socials, this cake stands out with its sunshine-bright mandarin oranges baked into a moist.
fluffy base, then topped with a luscious pineapple whipped cream frosting. Refreshing yet indulgent, it’s a cake that tastes like pure Southern hospitality in every slice.
Ingredients
Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake: The Ultimate Southern Citrus Dream
For the Cake
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, undrained
4 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the cake batter by combining cake mix, eggs, oil, and mandarin oranges along with their juice. Mix until smooth but still slightly textured with orange bits.
Bake the cake in round or rectangular pans until golden, light, and springy to the touch.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to keep the topping light and fluffy.
For the frosting, mix crushed pineapple with pudding mix and gently fold in whipped topping until creamy and smooth.
Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake and finish with optional coconut or nuts for extra flair.
How to Make
The secret to making Pig Pickin’ Cake irresistible lies in letting the flavors meld. After frosting.
refrigerate the cake for several hours or overnight so the pineapple cream topping soaks into the layers.
creating a moist, tangy sweetness. To keep the cake light, gently fold the whipped topping into the pineapple mixture rather than stirring too vigorously.
which ensures an airy texture. When serving, slice into squares or wedges and enjoy the refreshing burst of citrus balanced with creamy tropical notes.
Variations
For a richer twist, try adding cream cheese to the frosting for a tangy depth of flavor. A white or butter cake mix can be swapped for yellow cake mix if you prefer a subtler base.
Some bakers enjoy adding toasted pecans, walnuts, or even a sprinkle of shredded coconut for texture.
If you want to enhance the citrus flavor, a bit of orange zest or extract can be mixed into the batter.
You can even create a layered cake with frosting between tiers for an elegant presentation.
Tips
Always drain canned fruits lightly but not completely, as the juice adds natural sweetness and moisture.
Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve, since the whipped topping and fruit mixture taste best when chilled.
If making ahead, frost the cake a day early to allow the flavors to blend beautifully. For clean slices, use a sharp knife wiped between cuts to keep the creamy frosting neat.
Conclusion
Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a true Southern gem that captures the essence of comfort and celebration in every bite.
With its refreshing citrus, tropical pineapple, and fluffy cream topping, this cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition that brings people together with smiles and sweetness.
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