HomeClassic Pig Pickin’ Cake
Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake
Don’t let the name fool you—Pig Pickin’ Cake contains no pork! This beloved Southern dessert earned its quirky name because it’s the go-to cake for large gatherings, especially whole-hog barbecues (aka “pig pickin’s”) across the Carolinas and beyond.
What makes it special? A fluffy yellow cake made with a surprising ingredient—a can of mandarin oranges (juice and all!)—that adds moisture, subtle sweetness, and a bright citrus note. It’s topped with a cloud-like whipped frosting studded with toasted coconut and chopped pecans or maraschino cherries.
The result? A light, tender, impossibly moist cake that’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and disappears faster than the barbecue.
Why This Cake Belongs in Your Recipe Box
🍊 Canned mandarin oranges = built-in moisture + citrus flavor
🥥 Whipped frosting = light, not overly sweet
⏱️ Ready in under an hour—no fancy tools
💛 Nostalgic, potluck-perfect, and always requested
🥣 One bowl for cake, one for frosting
If you believe dessert should be comforting, generous, and just a little bit unexpected, this is your new heirloom recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 12–16)
For the Cake:
1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges in light syrup, undrained (juice + fruit)
4 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
💡 Yes—just these 4 ingredients! The oranges replace water, oil, and add flavor.
For the Frosting:
1 (8 oz) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
½ cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
½ cup chopped pecans or maraschino cherries (or both!)
Step-by-Step Instructions (Easy, Light, Irresistible)
1. Prep & Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan (or line with parchment).
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, undrained mandarin oranges, eggs, and oil.
Beat with a mixer on medium for 2–3 minutes until smooth and fluffy (batter will be thick).
3. Bake to Perfection
Pour into pan and bake 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool completely in the pan (at least 1 hour).
4. Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, fold thawed whipped topping and dry pudding mix together until thick and smooth.
Gently fold in toasted coconut and nuts/cherries.
5. Frost & Serve
Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake.
Chill at least 30 minutes before slicing (helps frosting set).
Store leftovers covered in the fridge.
Pro Tips for Success
Don’t drain the oranges! The syrup adds sweetness and moisture.
Toast the coconut: Spread on a baking sheet, bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until golden.
Use room-temperature eggs for fluffier cake.
For extra citrus: Add 1 tsp orange zest to the batter.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Bake 1 day ahead: Frost just before serving.
Store: Covered in fridge for up to 5 days (frosting stays fluffy!).
Freeze: Unfrosted cake layers freeze well for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh oranges?
A: Not recommended—the canned oranges’ syrup is key to texture and sweetness. Stick with the can!
Q: Is this cake gluten-free?
A: Use a GF yellow cake mix and check pudding mix labels.
Q: My frosting melted—what happened?
A: Likely the cake wasn’t fully cooled, or room was too warm. Chill cake first, and keep frosted cake refrigerated.
Q: Why “Pig Pickin’” Cake?
A: It’s a Southern tradition—this easy, crowd-feeding cake was (and still is!) the dessert of choice at whole-hog barbecues.
A Slice of Southern Generosity
Pig Pickin’ Cake isn’t fancy—but it doesn’t need to be. It’s honest, joyful, and made to share, embodying the spirit of community that defines Southern hospitality.
So grab that box of cake mix, open that can of mandarins, and bake a little sunshine. Because the best desserts aren’t just sweet—they’re made with love and passed around with joy.
Do you top yours with cherries, pecans, or both?
Share your family’s version in the comments! And if this recipe brought back memories of potlucks and porch swings, pass it on to someone who believes in the magic of simple, citrusy comfort. 🍊
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