Why You’ll Love This Cake

The Pig Pickin’ Cake is adored for its moist texture, refreshing citrus flavor, and a whipped pineapple topping that keeps each bite light and lively. It’s quick to make, easy to transport, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

For the Cake

• 1 box yellow cake mix
  Role: Provides a dependable, airy foundation and saves time while delivering a classic flavor.
• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges with juice
  Role: Adds natural citrus sweetness and extra moisture that keeps the cake tender.
• 4 large eggs
  Role: Build structure, richness, and lift in the batter.
• ½ cup vegetable oil
  Role: Ensures a soft crumb and helps distribute citrus juices evenly.

For the Frosting

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
  Role: Creates the signature light, fluffy frosting that isn’t heavy.
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, well-drained
  Role: Delivers bright tropical flavor and juicy texture contrasts.
• 1 package (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix
  Role: Thickens the frosting and adds a smooth, vanilla-sweet backbone.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or spray with nonstick spray.
2. Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl combine the yellow cake mix, mandarin oranges with juice (whole can, including juice), 4 eggs, and ½ cup vegetable oil. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on low-medium speed and mix until smooth and uniform. The mandarin pieces will break up slightly — that’s desirable.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (no wet batter). Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, drain the crushed pineapple very well (press in a sieve or with paper towels to remove excess liquid). In a medium bowl fold together the whipped topping, drained crushed pineapple, and the vanilla instant pudding mix. Folding gently prevents the whipped topping from deflating and keeps the frosting fluffy.
5. Assemble: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the pineapple-whipped mixture evenly over the top. Smooth with a spatula to get a neat finish.
6. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (overnight for best flavor and texture). Slice with a serrated knife or a sharp chef’s knife wiped with a damp cloth between cuts for clean edges.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Pig Pickin’ Cake

• Drain the pineapple thoroughly: Excess juice will thin the frosting — press pineapple in a sieve or use paper towels.
• Chill overnight: For the creamiest texture and best flavor melding, refrigerate the frosted cake overnight before serving.
• Keep it light: Fold the whipped topping gently to maintain volume — don’t overmix.
• Slicing tip: Use a serrated knife and wipe it clean between slices for tidy portions.
• Presentation: Garnish with a few mandarin segments or a sprinkle of finely toasted coconut for texture and visual pop.

Serving Suggestions to Complete the Meal

• Pair with a tall glass of iced sweet tea or bright homemade lemonade.
• Serve alongside fresh berries or a small bowl of macerated strawberries to heighten fruit flavors.
• For a brunch or picnic, bring the cake in a chilled container and serve in small squares with mint leaves for garnish.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This version of Pig Pickin’ Cake strikes the ideal balance of simplicity and bright flavor. Using a boxed yellow cake mix keeps prep time short without compromising taste, while the mandarin and pineapple combination delivers a uniquely refreshing profile. The addition of instant pudding to the whipped topping gives a stable, creamy frosting that slices beautifully — perfect for gatherings and photos alike.

Conclusion — Make It, Love It, Share It

In under an hour of active time and with minimal fuss, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert that captures the essence of Southern charm: light, fruity, and utterly delicious. The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is easy to make, easy to transport, and impossible to resist. Bake it for your next celebration, and watch it disappear.