Bright, fluffy, and irresistibly nostalgic, Pig Pickin’ Cake is a beloved Southern dessert that shows up everywhere from backyard BBQs to church potlucks. Light mandarin orange cake layers topped with a dreamy pineapple whipped frosting — it’s sunshine in every bite.
Despite the playful name, this cake is pure comfort. It’s refreshing, not too heavy, and perfect after a big meal — which is exactly why it became a staple at pig roasts across the South.
✨ Why It’s So Popular
- Incredibly moist and fluffy
- Light, fruity flavor
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for gatherings
- Even better the next day
If you love fruity, sweet-style cakes, this one fits beautifully into that category.
📝 Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges (with juice)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
For the Frosting
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (well drained)
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or use a 9×13 pan for a simpler version).
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, mandarin oranges with juice, oil, and eggs.
Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth. Small orange pieces are perfectly fine.
2️⃣ Bake
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool completely before frosting.
3️⃣ Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, mix drained crushed pineapple with dry pudding mix.
Fold in whipped topping gently until smooth and fluffy.
Refrigerate frosting for 10–15 minutes to slightly thicken.
4️⃣ Assemble
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting evenly.
Add second layer and frost top and sides generously.
Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving — this cake tastes best chilled.
💡 Pro Tips
- Drain pineapple very well to avoid runny frosting.
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon orange zest to the batter.
- Want homemade flair? Swap cake mix for a from-scratch yellow cake base.
- Garnish with mandarin segments or toasted coconut.
🧊 Storage
- Keep refrigerated
- Best enjoyed within 3–4 days
- Do not freeze once frosted (texture may change)
🍰 Why It’s Called “Pig Pickin’” Cake
The name comes from traditional Southern pig roasts where guests would “pick” pulled pork directly from the whole roasted hog. This light, citrusy cake became the perfect refreshing dessert after a rich barbecue meal.
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