Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is one of those Southern desserts that quietly steals the show. Despite its playful name, there’s no meat involved—just a soft, citrus-kissed cake layered with fluffy whipped frosting and finished with nostalgic toppings. It’s the cake that shows up at backyard barbecues, church potlucks, family reunions, and holiday gatherings, and somehow always ends up scraped clean first.
What sets Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake apart is its simplicity paired with surprising flavor. A humble yellow cake mix gets transformed by a can of mandarin oranges—juice and all—creating a tender crumb with gentle citrus brightness. The frosting is light and airy, never heavy or overly sweet, which makes this cake dangerously easy to keep slicing.
The first time I had Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake, it was served on a paper plate next to pulled pork and coleslaw. I didn’t expect much. One bite later, I understood why people guard this recipe so closely. It felt familiar and special at the same time—exactly what a great Southern dessert should be.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Mix cake mix, eggs, oil, and mandarin oranges with juice until smooth.
- Pour batter into dish and bake 30–35 minutes until set. Cool completely.
- Whisk pudding mix with crushed pineapple and juice until thickened.
- Fold in whipped topping, spread over cake, and garnish with toppings.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake Is Always a Hit
Built for a Crowd
Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake was made for gatherings. It bakes in a single pan, slices easily, and holds up well on a dessert table. Because it’s light rather than heavy, people don’t hesitate to go back for seconds.
It also travels beautifully, which is why it has remained a potluck staple for decades.
Light Texture, Big Flavor
The mandarin oranges do more than add flavor. They keep the cake moist and tender without making it dense. The citrus note balances the sweetness, while the whipped frosting keeps everything airy and fresh.
This balance is what makes Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake so memorable.
Ingredients That Make Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake Special
Mandarin Oranges
Canned mandarin oranges are the star. They blend right into the batter, breaking down during mixing and baking. The juice replaces part of the liquid, adding natural sweetness and moisture.
There’s no need to drain them. The juice is essential.
Whipped Frosting Base
Instead of heavy buttercream, this cake uses a whipped topping blended with instant pudding. The result is stable, fluffy, and light—perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Traditional Toppings
Chopped pecans, toasted coconut, or maraschino cherries add texture and visual appeal. These toppings are flexible, but they give the cake its classic look.
How to Make Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake Step by Step
Prepare the Cake
Preheat the oven and grease a baking dish. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and the entire can of mandarin oranges. Mix until smooth, breaking up the oranges as you go.
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake until golden and set in the center. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting
In a separate bowl, whisk instant pudding mix with crushed pineapple and its juice until thickened. Fold in whipped topping gently to keep it light.
This frosting sets slightly as it chills, making it easy to spread and slice.
Assemble
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with your choice of pecans, coconut, or cherries. Chill before serving for best texture.
Tips for the Best Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake
Let It Chill
Chilling helps the frosting set and enhances the flavor. This cake is even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.
Don’t Overmix
Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake less tender.
Customize Carefully
You can swap nuts or skip coconut, but keep the citrus base intact. That’s the heart of the cake.
Serving Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake
Perfect Pairings
This cake pairs beautifully with barbecue, grilled chicken, or a casual Southern spread. Its lightness balances savory meals perfectly.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cake stays moist and flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this cake contain pork?
No, the name comes from barbecue gatherings.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it’s ideal for making a day early.
Do I have to use nuts?
No, they’re optional.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Whipped topping works best for stability.
Why mandarin oranges?
They add moisture and subtle citrus flavor.
Conclusion
Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake has earned its place as a Southern favorite for a reason. It’s easy, nostalgic, and perfectly balanced—light enough for warm days, comforting enough for family traditions. Once you serve Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake, it stops being just another dessert and becomes the one people ask for every time you host.
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