Pig Pickin’ Cake 🍍🍰

Classic Southern Pig Pickin’ Cake with Pineapple, Mandarin Oranges, and Fluffy Whipped Frosting

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Pig Pickin’ Cake is a beloved Southern dessert known for its light texture, fruity flavor, and refreshing sweetness. Traditionally served at pig pickings, potlucks, family reunions, and summer gatherings, this cake is simple, crowd-pleasing, and incredibly nostalgic. With its moist yellow cake base, bursts of pineapple and mandarin oranges, and airy whipped frosting, Pig Pickin’ Cake is the kind of dessert that disappears fast.

This cake is especially popular because it feels light and refreshing, making it perfect for warm weather celebrations. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and doesn’t require advanced baking skills. Whether you’re making it for a casual get-together or a special event, Pig Pickin’ Cake always delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

What Is Pig Pickin’ Cake

A Classic Southern Dessert

Pig Pickin’ Cake is a traditional Southern cake made with a yellow or butter cake base mixed with crushed pineapple. After baking, the cake is topped with a fluffy frosting made from whipped topping, pudding mix, and mandarin oranges. The result is a moist, fruity cake that’s light, sweet, and incredibly refreshing.

Why It’s Called Pig Pickin’ Cake

The name comes from its association with pig pickings, which are large outdoor gatherings in the South where whole hogs are cooked and served. This cake became a favorite dessert at these events because it’s easy to make in large quantities and pairs perfectly with rich, savory foods.

Why Pig Pickin’ Cake Is So Popular

Pig Pickin’ Cake remains popular because it’s simple, affordable, and always a hit. The fruity flavors appeal to all ages, and the light texture makes it easy to enjoy even after a big meal. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert, which makes party planning easier.

Ingredients for Pig Pickin’ Cake

Cake Base Ingredients

The cake typically starts with a yellow cake mix or homemade yellow cake batter. Crushed pineapple, including the juice, is added directly to the batter, which helps create a moist and flavorful crumb.

Fruit Toppings

Mandarin oranges are commonly used in the frosting, adding sweetness and bright citrus flavor. Some variations also include extra pineapple or other tropical fruits.

Frosting Ingredients

The frosting is usually made with whipped topping and instant vanilla or pineapple pudding mix. This combination creates a light, fluffy texture that spreads easily and complements the fruit-filled cake.

Tools You’ll Need to Make Pig Pickin’ Cake

Essential Baking Tools

To make this cake, you’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups, a whisk or mixer, a baking pan, and an oven. These basic tools are enough to achieve excellent results.

Optional Tools for Best Results

A hand mixer, silicone spatula, and offset spatula can make mixing and frosting easier and help create a smooth, even finish.

How to Make Pig Pickin’ Cake Step by Step

Preparing the Cake Batter

Begin by preparing the yellow cake batter according to the recipe or package instructions. Add crushed pineapple with its juice and mix until well combined. The batter will be slightly looser than usual, which helps create a moist cake.

Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting.

Making the Frosting

Combine whipped topping with instant pudding mix until smooth. Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges, being careful not to crush them.

Frosting the Cake

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Refrigerate the cake for a short time to help the frosting set before serving.

Tips for the Best Pig Pickin’ Cake

How to Keep the Cake Moist

Using crushed pineapple with the juice is key to keeping the cake moist. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not frost the cake while it’s still warm, as this can cause the frosting to melt. Also, be sure to drain the mandarin oranges well to prevent excess moisture.

Flavor Variations

You can add shredded coconut, chopped pecans, or a splash of pineapple juice to customize the flavor while keeping the classic feel of the cake.

Serving Ideas and Occasions

Perfect for Parties and Potlucks

Pig Pickin’ Cake is ideal for large gatherings because it’s easy to slice and serve. It travels well and tastes even better after chilling.

Best Time to Serve

This cake is especially popular in spring and summer, but it’s delicious year-round. Its light, fruity flavor makes it a refreshing dessert anytime.

How to Garnish the Cake

Top the cake with extra mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, or a sprinkle of coconut for a simple, attractive presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

How to Store Pig Pickin’ Cake

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and moist for several days.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Pig Pickin’ Cake is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled until serving.

Freezing Instructions

While the cake base can be frozen, the whipped frosting is best made fresh. If freezing, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly and frost after thawing.

Final Thoughts

Pig Pickin’ Cake is a true Southern classic that’s easy to make and loved by everyone who tries it. With its moist pineapple cake, fluffy fruit-filled frosting, and refreshing flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for gatherings, celebrations, and casual get-togethers. If you’re looking for a simple cake with big flavor and nostalgic charm, Pig Pickin’ Cake is always a winning choice.