Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake
Gather the following ingredients to create your delightful Pig Pickin’ Cake:
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup water
- 2 (11 oz) cans mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juices
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cake mix, eggs, oil, and water until well combined.
- Step 3: Add one can of drained mandarin oranges to the batter and beat until well blended.
- Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 6: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Step 7: For the frosting, in a large bowl, stir together the instant pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juices). Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently until well combined.
- Step 8: Frost the cooled cake with the pineapple mixture, spreading evenly.
- Step 9: Top the frosted cake with the second can of mandarin oranges.
- Step 10: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! The cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to wrap it well to keep it fresh.
2. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
While canned fruits are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can use fresh mandarin oranges or pineapple. Just make sure to adjust for sweetness as needed.
3. Is the frosting really a pudding mixture?
Yes! The pudding mix combined with the whipped topping creates a light and fluffy frosting that complements the cake perfectly.
4. Can I freeze leftover cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake, but it’s best to freeze it without the frosting. Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
5. Can I substitute the yellow cake mix with another flavor?
Absolutely! Experimenting with different flavors like lemon or butter cake mix can add a unique twist to your Pig Pickin’ Cake.
Conclusion
The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is an easy and delightful dessert that embodies the spirit of Southern cooking. Its combination of vibrant citrus flavors and creamy frosting makes it a must-try for your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that will have your friends and family reaching for seconds. Enjoy this slice of Southern tradition!