Hey friends! Today, I’m excited to share a baking recipe that’s close to my heart and full of Southern charm — the Pig Pickin’ Cake. This sunny, citrus-kissed dessert is light, creamy, and layered with nostalgic flavor. If you’ve ever been to a Southern BBQ or family potluck, chances are you’ve spotted this golden beauty on the dessert table. And if not? Well, it’s time you did.
This cake is a crowd-pleaser through and through — a fluffy yellow cake layered with crushed pineapple, sweet whipped topping, and juicy mandarin oranges. It’s cold, creamy, and bursting with tropical vibes in every bite. Best part? It’s beginner-friendly, comes together with just a few pantry staples, and tastes even better the next day.
So, whether you’re prepping for a summer cookout, family reunion, or just need something bright and cheerful on your table, this cake brings sunshine to every slice. Ready to create some magic?
Recipe at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Bake Time | 25–30 minutes |
| Chill Time | 4 hours (or overnight for best flavor) |
| Total Time | About 5 hours including chill |
| Skill Level | Beginner-friendly |
| Servings | 12–16 slices |
| Best For | Potlucks, BBQs, Spring & Summer gatherings |
| Tools Needed | Mixing bowls, hand/stand mixer, 9×13 pan |
Make-Ahead Tip: This cake gets even better after chilling overnight, making it a great option for prepping the day before your event.
Ingredients List
For the Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
Use butter yellow for extra richness. - 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can mandarin oranges (11 oz), drained, reserve juice
Don’t toss that juice – it adds flavor to the batter!
Substitutions:
| Ingredient | Swap Option |
|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | White cake mix + 1 tsp vanilla |
| Mandarin oranges | Fresh segments or canned peaches |
| Vegetable oil | Melted butter or light olive oil |
For the Pineapple Whipped Frosting
- 1 container whipped topping (Cool Whip, 8 oz)
Thawed in fridge overnight. - 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 1 can crushed pineapple (20 oz), undrained
Pro Tip: Use full-fat whipped topping for a sturdier frosting that holds better after chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cake mix
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup oil
- Juice from the mandarin oranges
- Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, until fluffy.
- Gently fold in mandarin orange pieces (they may break up a bit — that’s okay!).
Baker’s Note: The batter will be light and airy with bits of orange throughout — that’s what gives it the signature citrusy lift.
Step 3: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Crushed pineapple with juice
- Dry pudding mix
- Mix gently until combined.
- Fold in whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
Pro Tip: Chill the frosting for 15–20 minutes before spreading — this helps it firm up and spread like a dream.
Step 5: Frost & Chill
- Once the cake is cool, spread the pineapple frosting evenly over the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours — or overnight for best flavor and texture.
Serving & Storage Tips
| Storage Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store covered for up to 4 days. Best chilled. |
| Freezer | Freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. |
| Serving Tip | Serve chilled with a garnish of extra oranges. |
Troubleshooting & FAQ
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Cake too dry | Don’t overbake — check at 25 min. Add a bit more juice. |
| Frosting too runny | Chill frosting before using; use full-fat topping. |
| Cake sinking in center | Beat batter well and avoid opening oven early. |
| Orange pieces sinking | Lightly toss in flour before adding to batter. |
Flavor Variations
Looking to mix things up? Try these fun twists:
- Tropical Twist
Add shredded coconut and a dash of rum extract to the batter for a beachy flair. - Berry Pickin’ Cake
Swap mandarin oranges with blueberries and use a lemon cake mix. - Layered Version
Bake in two 9-inch round pans for a more elegant presentation. Frost in between layers and garnish with fresh fruit.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about this Pig Pickin’ Cake — the name might be quirky, but the flavor is unforgettable. It’s one of those no-fuss desserts that always brings smiles, especially when the first chilled slice hits the plate.
Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned kitchen pro, this recipe is one you’ll come back to time and again. It’s fresh, fruity, and made to share.
Try it, love it, and don’t forget to save a slice for yourself — it goes fast!
