Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake

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Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake

Introduction

The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a beloved Southern dessert, most often served at barbecues, potlucks, church gatherings, and family reunions. Despite its funny name, it contains no pork! Instead, it’s a light, fruity, and refreshing cake made with yellow cake mix, mandarin oranges, pineapple, and a whipped cream frosting. The cake got its name because it became a favorite treat served at “pig pickin’” events—large outdoor feasts where a whole pig is roasted, and guests pick the meat. This cake, with its citrusy sweetness, serves as the perfect cool and refreshing ending to a rich barbecue meal.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup canned mandarin oranges (with juice, not drained)
  • ½ cup vegetable oil

For the Frosting

  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice, not drained)

Garnish (Optional)

  • Extra mandarin orange slices
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pecans

Instructions / Methods

Method 1: Classic Preparation

  1. Make the Batter
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, mandarin oranges (with juice), and vegetable oil.
    • Beat until well blended (the oranges should break into small pieces).
  2. Bake the Cake
    • Pour batter evenly into 2 or 3 greased round cake pans (or a 9×13-inch pan).
    • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • Let cakes cool completely.
  3. Prepare the Frosting
    • In a large bowl, mix crushed pineapple (with juice) and dry pudding mix.
    • Fold in whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
    • Chill in refrigerator until ready to use.
  4. Assemble the Cake
    • Spread frosting generously between layers and over the top and sides.
    • Garnish with extra orange slices, coconut, or pecans if desired.
  5. Chill & Serve
    • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors blend.

Method 2: Shortcut Sheet Cake

  • Bake the batter in a 9×13-inch pan, cool, and frost with pineapple topping for an easy, travel-friendly version (perfect for potlucks).

History

The Pig Pickin’ Cake rose to fame in the Southern United States during the mid-20th century. Traditionally, “pig pickin’” referred to community pig roasts where friends and family gathered for a feast. Alongside barbecue, coleslaw, and cornbread, cooks began bringing this citrusy cake, which offered a refreshing contrast to the smoky, savory meats. Over time, it became a staple of Southern hospitality and is now loved nationwide.

Benefits

  1. Refreshing Dessert: Light and fruity, not heavy like chocolate cakes.
  2. Easy to Make: Uses cake mix and instant pudding for simplicity.
  3. Crowd-Pleaser: Feeds a large group with ease.
  4. Versatile: Can be made layered, as a sheet cake, or even as cupcakes.
  5. Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better chilled overnight.

Formation (Cooking Science)

  • Mandarin Oranges in Batter: The juice adds moisture while the fruit pieces break apart, adding texture and sweetness.
  • Pudding + Pineapple in Frosting: The instant pudding thickens the pineapple juice, creating a creamy, stable frosting.
  • Chilling Step: Allows flavors to meld and cake layers to firm up for clean slicing.

Conclusion

The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a dessert full of Southern charm—easy to make, light, fruity, and refreshing. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and celebrations, it’s the kind of cake that disappears quickly at gatherings. Its nostalgic roots and vibrant flavors make it a true crowd favorite that continues to be passed down through generations.

Lovers of This Dish

  • Southerners at Heart: Tied to barbecue traditions.
  • Fruit Dessert Fans: Love the refreshing citrus and pineapple flavors.
  • Busy Bakers: Appreciate its simplicity and reliability.
  • Families: A cake that appeals to kids and adults alike.
  • Potluck Heroes: Perfect for sharing with a crowd.

Final Conclusion with Lovers

The Pig Pickin’ Cake is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of Southern tradition and hospitality. It’s adored by families, barbecue enthusiasts, fruit-lovers, and anyone who enjoys a sweet treat that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you serve it layered and elegant or as a simple sheet cake at a cookout, this cake will always bring smiles, memories, and requests for seconds.

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