Description
This Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a delightful, moist yellow cake layered with crushed pineapple, whipped topping, and mandarin oranges. Perfectly sweet and tangy, it combines a fluffy cake base with a creamy, fruity topping that makes it an ideal dessert for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup water
Topping Ingredients
- 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 mix
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mixing the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable or canola oil, and water. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Baking: Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely.
- Preparing the Topping: In a large bowl, stir together the instant vanilla pudding mix and the canned crushed pineapple (including juice). Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
- Assembling the Cake: Spread the pudding and whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake. Then, decorate the top with the drained mandarin oranges, distributing them uniformly.
- Chilling: Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the topping to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the whipped topping from melting.
- For an extra fruity twist, you can add chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the topping mixture.
- This cake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use fresh mandarin oranges if canned are unavailable, but drain well to avoid excess moisture.
