**Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake Recipe – A Southern Delight You’ll Crave Again and Again**
*Light, fruity, and irresistibly creamy — this sunshine-filled Southern dessert will win your heart at first bite!* 🍍🍊🍰
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### **Introduction**
If you’ve ever attended a Southern barbecue, church potluck, or family gathering, chances are you’ve come across the **famous Pig Pickin’ Cake** — a vintage favorite that’s every bit as fun as its name! Despite the quirky title, there’s nothing pork-related here. Instead, this beloved **Southern dessert** features **moist mandarin orange cake layers** topped with a **fluffy pineapple whipped cream frosting** that’s light, refreshing, and downright irresistible.
It’s the kind of dessert that tastes like sunshine — bright, fruity, and creamy — perfect for summer celebrations or whenever you need a little Southern comfort on your plate.
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### **Ingredients**
*(Serves 12–15)*
#### **For the Cake**
* **1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)** – The classic base that keeps things light and moist.
* **4 large eggs** – Add structure and richness.
* **½ cup vegetable oil** – Keeps the cake soft and tender.
* **1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, undrained** – Adds fruity flavor, moisture, and that signature citrus burst.
#### **For the Frosting**
* **1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed** – Makes the frosting airy and light.
* **1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix** – Gives body and creamy texture to the frosting.
* **1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained** – Adds sweetness, tang, and a tropical touch.
#### **Optional Garnishes**
* Extra mandarin orange slices
* Toasted coconut flakes
* Crushed pecans or walnuts
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### **Instructions**
#### **1. Make the Cake Batter**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or a 9x13-inch pan for a classic sheet cake).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, oil, and mandarin oranges (with their juice). Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about **2 minutes**, until the oranges break up slightly and the batter is smooth and fluffy.
#### **2. Bake**
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake for **25–30 minutes** (or 35 minutes for a 9x13 pan), until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the cakes completely before frosting.
#### **3. Prepare the Frosting**
In a medium bowl, combine the whipped topping, vanilla pudding mix, and crushed pineapple (juice and all). Stir gently until well combined and fluffy. Chill the frosting for 30 minutes before using — this helps it firm up beautifully.
#### **4. Assemble the Cake**
Spread a thick layer of frosting between the cake layers, then cover the top and sides completely. If using a sheet pan, simply frost the top evenly.
Garnish with mandarin orange slices, toasted coconut, or chopped nuts for a decorative finish.
#### **5. Chill and Serve**
Refrigerate the cake for at least **1 hour** before serving — it tastes best cold and allows the flavors to meld together.
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### **Why This Recipe is Loved**
* **Easy & Foolproof:** Starts with a simple boxed mix, but tastes homemade and special.
* **Light & Fruity:** Perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** Everyone loves its nostalgic Southern charm.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Gets even better after chilling overnight.
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### **Pro Tips for Perfect Pig Pickin’ Cake**
* **Use undrained fruit:** The juice keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
* **Chill thoroughly:** This cake is best served cold — it enhances the texture and taste.
* **Make it a trifle:** Layer cubed cake and frosting in a trifle dish for a stunning presentation.
* **Try variations:** Substitute the yellow cake mix with white or pineapple cake mix for extra flair.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
This **Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake** is a must-have for:
* **Barbecues & cookouts** (it’s the perfect sweet ending to smoky flavors)
* **Easter or summer potlucks**
* **Family reunions or baby showers**
* Or anytime you need a little Southern sunshine in dessert form ☀️
Pair it with a glass of **sweet tea** or **iced lemonade**, and you’ve got yourself a true taste of the South.
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