If you’ve spent time in the South — especially at church potlucks, family reunions, or Sunday dinners — chances are you’ve encountered the sweet, citrusy delight known as Pig Pickin’ Cake. Despite the name, this cake contains no pork. Instead, it earned its name because it was traditionally served at Southern pig roasts or “pig pickins,” where guests would enjoy roasted pork followed by a refreshing, fruit-forward dessert like this.
What makes Pig Pickin’ Cake truly irresistible is its light, fluffy texture combined with the bright flavors of mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple. The base cake is rich yet airy, and the frosting — made with whipped topping, pineapple, and vanilla pudding — is cool, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet.
This cake is easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and is perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Here’s how to make it from scratch using pantry staples and a little Southern charm.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 extra can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, for garnish
For the Frosting:
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice, do not drain)
- 1 tub (16 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick baking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, add the cake mix, eggs, oil, and water. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend on medium speed for 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
Now, take 1 can of mandarin oranges, drain the syrup, and add the oranges to the batter. Beat again — the oranges will break apart slightly, distributing their juice and citrus flavor throughout the batter. This step gives the cake its signature tender and moist texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Do not frost while warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
In a large bowl, combine:
- The crushed pineapple (including the juice)
- The vanilla pudding mix
Stir until the pudding starts to thicken slightly. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula. Don’t over-mix — you want the frosting to stay light and fluffy.
Step 5: Frost and Garnish
Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the pineapple-pudding topping evenly across the surface.
Take your second can of mandarin oranges, drain them well, and carefully place the segments on top of the frosted cake in rows or circles for a pretty finish.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This chilling time helps the frosting set and intensifies the citrus flavors.
Slice into squares and serve cold. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge, covered, for up to 3–4 days.
Tips & Variations
- Make Ahead: This cake actually tastes better the next day. The flavors meld and the frosting sets up beautifully overnight.
- Add Texture: Sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped pecans on top for a Southern-style twist.
- Layer Cake Option: You can divide the batter into two round cake pans and create a layered Pig Pickin’ Cake for special occasions.
- Low-Sugar Tip: Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping to reduce sweetness if desired.
Why It’s a Southern Favorite
This cake brings back memories for many Southerners — it’s nostalgic, simple, and bursting with sunshine flavor. The mandarin oranges in the batter add natural sweetness and moisture, while the pineapple-pudding topping delivers a creamy, fruity finish that’s unlike any store-bought frosting.
Whether you’re attending a backyard BBQ, potluck, or just need a quick dessert for your family, this cake always gets rave reviews.
Pig Pickin’ Cake is the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations. It’s not just about how good it tastes — it’s about the memories it creates. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to bring a little piece of Southern tradition to their table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
