Introduction

There are certain desserts that feel like a hug on a plate, and this Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is one of them. Rooted in Southern tradition, it has been served for generations at backyard cookouts, church potlucks, and family reunions. With every bite, you get the sunshine-sweet flavors of mandarin oranges, pineapple, and a light creamy topping that tastes like summer in dessert form.

What makes this cake so special is its ease. You don’t have to be a professional baker to put together something that looks and tastes like a celebration. The batter begins with a simple cake mix, but the addition of fruit transforms it into something extraordinary. The topping, with its dreamy pineapple-pudding fluff, makes this cake irresistible.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly comfort food dessert for Sunday dinner, an easy make-ahead cake recipe for the holidays, or a nostalgic treat to share at a cookout, Pig Pickin’ Cake is the one to reach for. It’s light, refreshing, and always leaves people asking for the recipe.

 

 

What You Need

For the Cake

• 1 (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 3 eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 cup water
• 2 (11 oz) cans mandarin oranges, drained (divided)

For the Topping

• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juices
• 1 (16 oz) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix

 

 

How to Make It

1. Preheat Oven – Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix Batter – In a bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and water. Drain one can of mandarin oranges and fold them in, blending until smooth.
3. Bake – Pour into the prepared dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Make Frosting – Stir pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) in a bowl until combined. Fold in thawed whipped topping gently until fluffy.
5. Frost & Garnish – Spread topping evenly over cooled cake. Garnish with the second can of drained mandarin oranges.
6. Chill & Serve – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Easy to Make – Starts with a cake mix but tastes homemade.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for parties, potlucks, and family dinners.
• Light & Refreshing – Not heavy or overly sweet, ideal for warmer weather.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Actually tastes better after chilling.

 

 

Tips for Success

• Use cold whipped topping for the fluffiest frosting texture.
• For extra flavor, substitute water with pineapple juice.
• Always cool the cake fully before frosting to prevent melting.
• Garnish with extra fruit slices for a bakery-style presentation.

 

 

Variations

• Layer Cake – Bake in two round pans for a layered version.
• Coconut Twist – Add shredded coconut to the topping.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
• Citrus Boost – Add orange zest to the cake batter for a fresh punch.

 

 

FAQs

1. Why is it called Pig Pickin’ Cake?
It earned the name from being a popular dessert at Southern pig roasts (“pig pickins’”).

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually improves in flavor after chilling overnight.

3. Can I use fresh whipped cream?
You can, but it won’t hold up as long as frozen whipped topping.

4. What if I don’t like pudding mix?
Try substituting with cream cheese whipped with pineapple for a tangier topping.

5. Can I bake this in a bundt pan?
Yes—just adjust baking time (about 40–45 minutes).

6. Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?
Yes, keep covered in the fridge for best freshness.

7. Can I use sugar-free pudding?
Absolutely, for a lighter version.

8. Can I freeze Pig Pickin’ Cake?
You can freeze the unfrosted cake, but add topping fresh before serving.

9. Is this cake good for special occasions?
It’s perfect for Easter, Mother’s Day, birthdays, and summer cookouts.

10. What drinks pair well with it?
Iced tea, lemonade, or a light sparkling wine complement the flavors beautifully.

 

 

Health Benefits

While this is a dessert, it’s lighter than most cream-heavy cakes. The oranges and pineapple add natural vitamin C and fiber, and the whipped topping keeps it airy rather than dense. It’s a sweet treat you can enjoy in moderation without feeling overly indulgent.

 

How to Serve

• Slice chilled cake into squares and serve on a platter for gatherings.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.
• Garnish with extra fruit for a refreshing finish.

 

 

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Best made 1 day in advance to let flavors blend.
• Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake up to 2 months. Add topping after thawing.

 

Conclusion

This Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition that brings joy to every table. Easy, flavorful, and filled with sunshine-sweet fruit, it’s a dessert that bridges generations and never goes out of style. Serve it once, and it’s bound to become a family favorite comfort food dessert in your home too.