Description
This Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a delightful Southern-inspired dessert featuring a moist yellow cake base topped with a creamy pineapple and instant vanilla pudding mixture, whipped topping, and vibrant mandarin oranges. Perfect for summer gatherings, this no-fuss cake combines fruity flavors with a light, fluffy texture that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup water
Topping Ingredients
- 2 (11 oz) cans mandarin oranges, drained (use one can for the topping and one can for garnish)
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juices
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable or canola oil, and water. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Baking: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Topping: In a large bowl, stir together the instant vanilla pudding mix with the crushed pineapple along with its juices until well combined. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the pineapple and whipped topping mixture evenly over the surface as a frosting layer. Arrange the drained mandarin oranges on top for garnish and added brightness.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set properly.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the whipped topping from melting.
- You can substitute the frozen whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- For a more tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the topping mixture.
- Best served chilled; store leftovers in the refrigerator covered to maintain freshness.
- This cake is a classic for summer parties and pig pickin’ gatherings but can be enjoyed year-round.