Classic Pig Pickin Cake

When it comes to Southern desserts, there’s one cake that instantly brings nostalgia, smiles, and a touch of sunshine to any gathering: the Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake. This light, fruity, and irresistibly creamy cake has been a staple at potlucks, family reunions, and church suppers across the South for generations. Despite its curious name, there’s no pork involved—just layers of citrusy sweetness and tropical flair that make it a crowd favorite.

This article will dive deep into the history of Pig Pickin’ Cake, why it works so well, the ingredients you’ll need, a step-by-step recipe guide, helpful tips and tricks, and some fun serving suggestions. By the end, you’ll be ready to whip up this Southern treasure in your own kitchen and wow everyone at the table.

🍰 What Exactly Is Pig Pickin’ Cake?

The name might raise eyebrows for those unfamiliar with Southern traditions. Pig Pickin’ Cake earned its name because it was often served at “pig pickins’”—Southern-style barbecues where a whole pig was roasted and guests would “pick” the meat right off the cooked hog. After indulging in smoky barbecue, slaw, and cornbread, guests wanted a dessert that was refreshing, light, and not overly heavy. Enter Pig Pickin’ Cake—a citrus-infused yellow cake layered with pineapple, mandarin oranges, and a dreamy whipped cream topping.

Its lightness and fruity flavors made it the perfect finish to a hearty meal, and it quickly became a potluck legend.

🥄 Why This Recipe Works

Boxed Cake Mix Base – Using a yellow cake mix as the base makes it simple, consistent, and beginner-friendly, while the added oranges transform the flavor and texture.

Citrus + Pineapple Combo – The mandarin oranges folded into the batter and the crushed pineapple in the frosting create a tropical, refreshing taste that balances sweetness.

Whipped Topping Frosting – Unlike traditional heavy buttercream, this frosting uses Cool Whip (or whipped cream) mixed with pudding and pineapple, making it light, airy, and not overly sweet.

Make-Ahead Friendly – This cake actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld, making it perfect for events.

🛒 What You’ll Need for Pig Pickin’ Cake

For the Cake:

1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)

4 large eggs 🥚

1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, undrained 🍊

½ cup vegetable oil

For the Frosting:

1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)

1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained 🍍

Optional: shredded coconut or chopped pecans for garnish

👩‍🍳 How to Make Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or a 9×13 pan if you prefer).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, oil, and the entire can of mandarin oranges (juice included).

Beat with an electric mixer until the batter is smooth. The oranges will break up and blend into the batter, giving it moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans.

Bake for 25–30 minutes (for round pans) or 35–40 minutes (for a 9×13 pan), until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, combine the pudding mix with the crushed pineapple (juice included).

Fold in the whipped topping until well blended.

Chill the frosting for at least 30 minutes to firm up slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread frosting evenly between the cake layers and on top (and sides if making a round cake).

Garnish with extra mandarin slices, pineapple chunks, coconut, or pecans if desired.

Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving.

💡 Tips & Tricks for the Best Pig Pickin’ Cake

Use Cold Ingredients – Keep the Cool Whip and pudding mixture cold for a fluffy, stable frosting.

Don’t Drain the Cans – Both the mandarin oranges and pineapple juice add moisture and flavor to the cake.

Make It Ahead – This cake is even better when made a day before serving. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Keep It Refrigerated – Because of the whipped topping, this cake should always be stored in the fridge.

Variation Idea – Swap the yellow cake mix for a butter pecan or white cake mix for a different flavor base.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

Pig Pickin’ Cake shines as a summer dessert but can truly be enjoyed year-round. Here are some fun serving ideas:

Potluck Favorite – Slice it into squares from a 9×13 pan and bring it to a picnic or barbecue.

Layer Cake Elegance – Dress it up in round pans, garnish with mandarin slices, and serve as a centerpiece dessert.

Parfait Style – Layer crumbled cake with frosting in clear cups for an easy grab-and-go treat.

Frozen Treat – Freeze individual slices for a cold, refreshing twist on a hot day.

📜 A Little History of Pig Pickin’ Cake

This cake gained popularity in the mid-20th century across the Southern U.S., especially in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Its name directly ties to the pig pickin’ tradition, a communal feast where neighbors gathered to enjoy barbecue. The cake’s bright, refreshing flavor stood out against smoky meats and rich side dishes. Over the years, it became a treasured recipe passed down through generations—often appearing in community cookbooks, church gatherings, and Sunday dinners.

Interestingly, while it’s most famous in the South, it’s spread nationwide thanks to its ease and crowd-pleasing flavor. Today, Pig Pickin’ Cake is sometimes called Mandarin Orange Cake or Sunshine Cake, but to many Southerners, the pig pickin’ name is here to stay.

🌟 Why You’ll Love Making This Cake

Beginner Friendly – Perfect for new bakers since it starts with a boxed mix.

Unique Flavor – The combo of citrus, pineapple, and creamy topping is unlike traditional cakes.

Crowd Pleaser – Always a hit at gatherings, guaranteed to have people asking for the recipe.

Customizable – Add nuts, coconut, or even a splash of rum extract for a tropical twist.

🕒 Timing Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Cooling & Frosting Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes

Final Thoughts

The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is more than just dessert—it’s a slice of Southern tradition, bringing comfort, sunshine, and joy to every bite. Whether you’re carrying on family traditions, trying it for the first time, or simply looking for an easy crowd-pleasing cake, this recipe delivers.

From the tangy sweetness of the oranges to the tropical flair of pineapple and the airy frosting that feels like summer on a spoon, Pig Pickin’ Cake is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes carry the most history and the most heart.

So, the next time you’re planning a barbecue, potluck, or just craving something light yet indulgent, whip up this cake and share a piece of Southern sunshine with your loved ones.

More Recipes You Might Like