Description
This Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is a moist and fruity yellow cake layered with creamy pineapple and whipped topping, perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks. With mandarin oranges and a luscious pudding topping, it offers a refreshing and sweet twist on traditional cake recipes. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, this cake is sure to delight with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup water
Fruit and Topping
- 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 thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mixing the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 3 eggs, ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil, and 1 cup water. Stir until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Baking: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Preparing the Topping: In a large bowl, mix the instant vanilla pudding mix with the entire can of crushed pineapple along with its juices. Fold in the thawed frozen whipped topping gently until well combined.
- Frosting the Cake: Spread the pineapple and whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- Adding the Mandarin Oranges: Top the frosted cake with the drained mandarin oranges, distributing them evenly for a colorful and tasty finish.
- Chilling: Refrigerate the finished cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before applying the topping to prevent it from melting.
- Use thawed whipped topping for a smooth and creamy texture.
- This cake is best served chilled, making it perfect for warm weather parties.
- For added texture, you can sprinkle chopped nuts on top along with the mandarin oranges if desired.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
