Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake – A Southern Sunshine Dessert

Introduction

If you grew up in the South, chances are you’ve had Pig Pickin’ Cake at more than one family gathering, church potluck, or summer BBQ. This nostalgic dessert, also called “Mandarin Orange Cake,” is light, fruity, and irresistibly moist. The name comes from traditional Southern pig roasts (“pig pickins”), where this cake was almost always on the dessert table.

Made with mandarin oranges baked right into a tender yellow cake, then topped with a fluffy pineapple-pudding frosting, this cake is sunshine on a plate. It’s simple, refreshing, and the kind of dessert that never lasts long once served.

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Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix

• 3 large eggs

• 1/3 cup vegetable or canola oil

• 1 cup water

• 2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges, drained

For the Frosting

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or a 9×13-inch pan if you prefer sheet cake style).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and water.

3. Add the drained mandarin oranges and gently fold them into the batter. Their juice will naturally moisten the cake, so don’t overmix.

Step 2: Bake

1. Divide the batter evenly into prepared pans.

2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) until thickened.

2. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.

3. Chill frosting in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Spread a generous layer of frosting between the cake layers.

2. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining pineapple mixture.

3. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

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Tips & Variations

• Sheet cake shortcut: Use a 9×13-inch pan and spread the frosting on top—perfect for parties.

• Extra fruity: Add shredded coconut or chopped pecans to the frosting for extra texture.

• Decorate: Garnish with mandarin orange slices or toasted coconut on top.

• Make ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day after chilling overnight.

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Storage

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing is not recommended due to the whipped topping frosting.

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Why You’ll Love It

• Light, fruity, and refreshing – ideal for summer gatherings.

• Easy to make with pantry staples and canned fruit.

• A nostalgic Southern dessert that never goes out of style.

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Final Thoughts

Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is the ultimate Southern party dessert—bright, sweet, and perfect for sharing. If you grew up in the South, this cake probably brings back memories of potlucks and family get-togethers. And if you’ve never tried it, now’s your chance to bring a bit of sunshine into your kitchen.