Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake

When it comes to Southern desserts, few sweets shine as brightly as the Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake. This nostalgic cake, sometimes called a “Mandarin Orange Cake,” has roots deep in Southern tradition. It gets its playful name from its frequent appearance at pig pickin’s—Southern-style barbecue gatherings where communities come together to enjoy slow-cooked pork, sides, and, of course, dessert.

What makes Pig Pickin’ Cake so special is its refreshing flavor profile. It’s moist, light, and bursting with citrusy sweetness thanks to mandarin oranges baked right into the cake batter. Topped with a pineapple-pudding whipped topping, this cake is a true celebration of sunshine in dessert form. Whether you serve it at a family reunion, summer cookout, church potluck, or holiday feast, this cake is bound to become a crowd favorite.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

Moist & Flavorful Base – The mandarin oranges not only add sweetness but also keep the cake extra moist. Their juice seeps into the crumb, ensuring no dry bites.

Shortcut Magic – Using a yellow cake mix as the base saves time while still producing a bakery-worthy dessert.

Light & Creamy Topping – The combination of crushed pineapple, instant pudding mix, whipped topping, and whipped cream creates a frosting that’s not heavy or overly sweet.

Perfect for Gatherings – This cake can be made ahead, travels well, and serves a crowd.

Versatile Presentation – Bake it as a sheet cake, layer cake, or even cupcakes.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix

3 large eggs

⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil

1 cup water

2 (11 oz) cans mandarin oranges, drained and lightly mashed

For the Topping:

1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained

1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix

8 oz frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

Optional: ½ cup heavy whipping cream (for extra creaminess)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9-inch round pans.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, oil, and water. Beat until smooth.

Fold in the drained mandarin oranges, breaking them up gently with a spoon or spatula. Don’t overmix—you want little bursts of fruit throughout the batter.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour batter into prepared pan(s).

Bake for 25–30 minutes (for 9×13) or 20–25 minutes (for rounds), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, stir together the crushed pineapple (with juice) and instant pudding mix until thickened.

Fold in the thawed whipped topping. For extra richness, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold it in as well.

Chill frosting in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before spreading.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Garnish with extra mandarin orange slices or pineapple tidbits if desired.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

💡 Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success

Drain the Oranges Well – Too much liquid can make the cake heavy. Lightly mash them, but don’t puree.

Cool Completely Before Frosting – Frosting a warm cake will cause the topping to melt.

Whipped Cream Upgrade – Folding in freshly whipped cream makes the topping extra luxurious.

Make Ahead Friendly – The cake actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors settle.

For a Lighter Dessert – Use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping.

Add Crunch – Garnish with toasted coconut, chopped pecans, or crushed vanilla wafers for extra texture.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Potluck Favorite – Serve in the baking dish for easy transport and slicing.

Layer Cake Version – Bake in two round pans and stack with frosting in between for an elegant presentation.

Cupcakes – Perfect for individual servings at parties.

Summer Picnic Dessert – Serve chilled straight from the cooler for a refreshing treat.

🕒 Timing Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

Cooling & Chilling Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: About 2 hours (mostly cooling)

Servings: 12–16 slices

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing.

Make Ahead: Frost the day before serving for best flavor.

🌟 Variations to Try

Coconut Pig Pickin’ Cake – Add shredded coconut to the frosting for a tropical twist.

Nutty Pig Pickin’ Cake – Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Layered Fruit Topping – Top with fresh berries or kiwi for extra color.

Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Cake

Easy to Make: Uses a cake mix but tastes homemade.

Bright & Fruity: Perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Light but Satisfying: Not as heavy as a traditional frosted cake.

Nostalgic & Beloved: A true Southern tradition that never disappoints.

📝 Final Thoughts

The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of Southern hospitality. With its moist mandarin orange cake and creamy pineapple-pudding topping, it’s the kind of treat that makes people smile and come back for seconds.

Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a holiday dinner, or just because you’re craving something fruity and sweet, this cake is guaranteed to be a winner. It’s simple, refreshing, and full of sunshine—just like the South itself.

So, next time you’re looking for a dessert that’s effortless yet impressive, whip up a Pig Pickin’ Cake. Your guests will be asking for the recipe before they finish their first slice. 🍊🍍🍰

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