Let me take you on a journey to the heart of Southern comfort with a dessert that’s as delightful as it is easy to make—the Easy Pig Pickin Cake. a warm summer evening, the smell of barbecue wafting through the air, and a table full of friends and family gathered around. What’s missing? A show-stopping dessert that’s as memorable as the main course. Enter the Pig Pickin Cake, a Southern classic that’s as much a part of the tradition as the pig roast itself.
This cake is a symphony of flavors—light, fluffy, and bursting with citrusy goodness. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. The secret? A moist orange cake layered with a creamy, dreamy pineapple and whipped topping frosting. It’s sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a pastry chef to whip this up. It’s a no-fuss, no-muss kind of dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a potluck, or just craving something sweet, this cake has got you covered.
And let’s talk about the name for a second. Pig Pickin Cake? It might sound quirky, but it’s rooted in Southern tradition. This cake is often served at pig pickin parties, where a whole pig is roasted and guests “pick” the meat off the bone. It’s a celebration of community, food, and good times.
So, if you’re ready to bring a slice of the South to your table, let’s dive into this easy Pig Pickin Cake recipe. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe!
Why This Easy Pig Pickin Cake is a Must-Try
This Easy Pig Pickin Cake is a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s a no-bake wonder that combines the zesty flavors of orange and pineapple with a creamy, dreamy frosting. The cake itself is light and airy, while the frosting is rich and indulgent. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
What sets this cake apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it at a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just as a treat for yourself.
The flavors are what really make this cake shine. The orange cake is moist and flavorful, while the pineapple and whipped topping frosting adds a tropical twist. It’s a combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor. This cake is a Southern classic that’s been passed down through generations. It’s a taste of tradition that’s sure to bring back fond memories—or create new ones.
A Family Favorite: The Story Behind Our Pig Pickin Cake
Let me tell you about the first time I made this cake for my family. It was a hot summer day, and we were hosting a backyard barbecue. I wanted to make something special for dessert, something that would stand out among the usual fare. That’s when I stumbled upon the Pig Pickin Cake recipe.
I was a bit skeptical at first. A cake with orange and pineapple? It sounded unusual, but I decided to give it a try. To my surprise, it was a hit! My husband couldn’t stop raving about it, and my kids were begging for seconds.
Since then, this cake has become a staple in our household. It’s our go-to dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just because. There’s something about the combination of flavors that’s just irresistible.
One of my favorite memories is the time I made this cake for my best friend’s birthday. She’s a bit of a foodie, so I was nervous about how she’d react. But she loved it! In fact, she asked for the recipe and has been making it ever since.
This cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a memory maker. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together and creates lasting memories. And that’s why it’s so special to me.
Why This Easy Pig Pickin Cake
This Easy Pig Pickin Cake is a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s a no-bake wonder that combines the zesty flavors of orange and pineapple with a creamy, dreamy frosting. The cake itself is light and airy, while the frosting is rich and indulgent. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
What sets this cake apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it at a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just as a treat for yourself.
The flavors are what really make this cake shine. The orange cake is moist and flavorful, while the pineapple and whipped topping frosting adds a tropical twist. It’s a combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor. This cake is a Southern classic that’s been passed down through generations. It’s a taste of tradition that’s sure to bring back fond memories—or create new ones.
How to Make Easy Pig Pickin Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange cake mix, mandarin oranges, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed pineapple, instant vanilla pudding mix, and whipped topping. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips For Easy Pig Pickin Cake
For the best results, make sure to drain the mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the cake soggy.
If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought whipped topping. However, homemade whipped cream will take this cake to the next level.
This cake is best served chilled, so be sure to refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re not a fan of mandarin oranges, you can substitute them with fresh orange segments or even orange juice.
For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut to the frosting.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use a sugar-free cake mix and low-fat whipped topping.
Make a Healthier Version
To make a healthier version of this cake, use a sugar-free cake mix and low-fat whipped topping. You can also substitute the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.
Closing For Easy Pig Pickin Cake
And there you have it! A delicious, easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes.
Easy Pig Pickin Cake
Description
Indulge in the delightfully moist and flavorful Pig Pickin Cake, bursting with tropical goodness. This citrus-infused dessert features layers of pineapple, mandarin oranges, and whipped cream, creating a perfect harmony of sweetness. Enjoy a slice of sunshine in every bite!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange cake mix, mandarin oranges, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.
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Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed pineapple, instant vanilla pudding mix, and whipped topping. Stir until smooth and well combined.
-
Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2401.94kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 59.9g93%
- Saturated Fat 19.68g99%
- Cholesterol 744mg248%
- Sodium 3866.81mg162%
- Potassium 596.54mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 421.97g141%
- Dietary Fiber 5.69g23%
- Sugars 218.29g
- Protein 46.5g93%
- Vitamin A 1080 IU
- Calcium 1244.23 mg
- Iron 13.59 mg
- Vitamin D 4 mcg
- Vitamin E 8.38 mg
- Vitamin K 54.65 mcg
- Thiamin 1.2 mg
- Riboflavin 2.04 mg
- Niacin 12.49 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.48 mg
- Folate 455.9 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1.78 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 4.59 mg
- Phosphorus 2138.29 mg
- Magnesium 80.87 mg
- Zinc 4.96 mg
- Selenium 105.86 mcg
- Copper 0.56 mg
- Manganese 1.12 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
