Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake Recipe – A Timeless Southern Favorite
The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a true Southern gem — a dessert that’s as cheerful and crowd-pleasing as the gatherings it graces. Light, fruity, and perfectly sweet, this cake combines the comforting richness of yellow cake with the tropical freshness of mandarin oranges and pineapple. Topped with a fluffy whipped frosting, it’s a refreshing finish to any barbecue, potluck, or Sunday dinner.
This cake isn’t just a treat — it’s a Southern tradition, lovingly passed down through generations and often the highlight of family reunions and backyard celebrations.
What Is a Pig Pickin’ Cake?
Despite its quirky name, Pig Pickin’ Cake doesn’t contain any pork! The name comes from its popularity at Southern “pig pickin’s” — outdoor pig roasts where friends and family gather to enjoy hearty food and sweet desserts.
The cake is prized for its light texture, citrusy flavor, and cool, creamy topping. Each bite delivers a burst of sunshine from the combination of mandarin oranges baked into the cake and pineapple in the frosting. It’s a dessert that feels like summer all year long.
Ingredients for Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake
To make this irresistible cake, you’ll need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s the complete list:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | 1 (15.25 oz) box |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Vegetable or canola oil | ⅓ cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Canned mandarin oranges, drained | 2 (11 oz) cans |
| Crushed pineapple with juices | 1 (20 oz) can |
| Frozen whipped topping, thawed | 1 (16 oz) container |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 1 (3.4 oz) box |
These ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s light, luscious, and wonderfully moist — with a flavor profile that’s both tropical and nostalgic.
How to Make Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake
Follow these easy steps to create a perfectly moist and flavorful Pig Pickin’ Cake every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can also line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Yellow cake mix
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
- Water
Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Next, gently fold in one can of drained mandarin oranges, breaking them slightly as you stir. These oranges infuse the batter with moisture and a subtle citrus tang, giving the cake its signature flavor and tender texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. A fully cooled cake ensures your whipped topping won’t melt or slide.
Step 4: Prepare the Pineapple Whipped Frosting
In a large bowl, mix together:
- Crushed pineapple with juice
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
Stir until well combined. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
This creates a light, tropical frosting that’s both creamy and refreshing, perfectly complementing the citrus-infused cake layers.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
If using round cake pans:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.
- Place the second layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
If using a 9×13-inch pan, simply spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
For an elegant touch, garnish with a few mandarin orange segments or a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This step allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a cool, refreshing dessert that’s easy to slice and serve.
Tips for the Perfect Pig Pickin’ Cake
- Don’t skip chilling. It’s essential for firming up the frosting and enhancing the fruity flavor.
- Use the juice from the pineapple for extra sweetness and moisture — no need to drain it.
- Make it ahead. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
- Customize your flavors. Swap instant vanilla pudding for cheesecake or coconut cream pudding for a twist.
- Presentation idea: Serve slices topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra orange segments.
Why We Love This Cake
The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a piece of Southern comfort. It’s:
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Light and fruity, making it perfect after hearty meals.
- Beautifully textured, thanks to the oranges in the batter and the pineapple in the frosting.
- Versatile — ideal for potlucks, summer picnics, and festive gatherings.
Every forkful combines the soft, citrus-infused cake with creamy, tangy frosting, delivering the kind of bite that instantly brings a smile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pig Pickin’ Cake chilled, with a side of fresh fruit or sweet tea for a complete Southern experience. It pairs beautifully with:
- Barbecued ribs or pulled pork sandwiches at summer cookouts.
- Grilled chicken or burgers at family picnics.
- Coffee or sweet tea for an afternoon treat.
For extra indulgence, top each slice with toasted coconut or a drizzle of honey for added texture and sweetness.
Storage Instructions
Keep the cake covered and refrigerated for up to 4 days. The whipped topping frosting stays light and fresh when stored properly.
To freeze, slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap. Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations to Try
Want to put your own twist on this Southern classic? Try these ideas:
- Coconut Pig Pickin’ Cake – Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter and sprinkle more on top of the frosting.
- Lemon Pig Pickin’ Cake – Use lemon pudding mix and add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrus boost.
- Layered Trifle Version – Cut the cake into cubes and layer it in a trifle bowl with frosting and fruit for a stunning presentation.
Conclusion
The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is the ultimate Southern dessert — simple to make, bursting with fruity flavor, and guaranteed to bring smiles to any occasion. Its sunny blend of mandarin oranges, pineapple, and whipped topping creates a cake that’s light yet deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, family reunion, or festive gathering, this cake always earns a place of honor on the dessert table.
Enjoy a slice of Southern sunshine with every bite!