Pig Pickin Cake

Pineapple Orange Cake, also known as Pig Pickin Cake, is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any gathering. This light and refreshing cake is not only easy to make but also offers a unique combination of flavors that will impress your guests. With its moist texture and creamy pineapple frosting, this cake is an ideal choice for birthdays, picnics, or just a sweet treat after dinner. You’ll love how this guilt-free recipe fits into various occasions while standing out with its vibrant flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious cake.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of pineapple and mandarin oranges creates a tropical taste that’s sure to please.
• Light Dessert Option: This nearly guilt-free cake is perfect for those looking for lighter dessert choices without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Pig Pickin Cake, gather your tools for a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 13×9 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 13×9 inch baking dish: This size ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve the cake in squares.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing the batter to achieve the right consistency.

Ingredients

Pineapple Orange Cake aka Pig Pickin Cake is an easy, light dessert recipe that’s nearly guilt free! You’ll love the refreshing, moist orange cake topped with creamy pineapple flavored frosting!

For the Cake

• 1 box white cake mix
• 1 can mandarin oranges, undrained (15 ounce)
• 4 egg whites
• 1/3 cup applesauce

For the Frosting

• 1 can crushed pineapple, undrained (20 ounce)
• 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounce)
• 12 ounce Cool Whip (thawed)

How to Make Pig Pickin Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray your 13×9 inch baking dish with baking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix with the undrained mandarin oranges, egg whites, and applesauce. Beat the mixture for two minutes until well blended. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

For the frosting, combine the crushed pineapple with instant vanilla pudding mix in a bowl until fully mixed. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Frost Your Cake

Spread the creamy pineapple frosting over your cooled cake evenly. For best results, refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pig Pickin Cake!

How to Serve Pig Pickin Cake

Serving Pig Pickin Cake can elevate any gathering, making it a delightful treat for your guests. This light and refreshing dessert pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavor profile.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
• Citrus Slices: Add orange or lemon slices for a zesty contrast.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.
• Coconut Sorbet: For a dairy-free option, coconut sorbet adds a tropical twist.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Fruit Salad: Pair with a colorful fruit salad for a vibrant brunch option.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Create parfaits with yogurt and granola to serve alongside the cake.

With Beverages

• Iced Tea: A glass of sweet iced tea is perfect for balancing the cake’s sweetness.
• Sparkling Water: Light and refreshing, sparkling water is an excellent palate cleanser.

How to Perfect Pig Pickin Cake

To ensure your Pig Pickin Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Mix Thoroughly: Make sure to beat the batter well for even texture.
• Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple enhance the flavor significantly.
• Bold Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Bold Refrigerate Before Serving: Chilling the cake for at least an hour helps set the frosting and intensifies flavors.
• Bold Experiment with Toppings: Try adding toasted coconut or chopped nuts on top for added texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pig Pickin Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pig Pickin Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that complements the dessert.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes for a comforting side that goes well with the light cake.
4. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs are always a hit at gatherings and balance the sweetness of the cake.
5. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers richness that pairs nicely with lighter desserts.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add depth to your meal while complementing the flavors of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pig Pickin Cake, it’s easy to overlook small details that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool completely is essential for proper frosting application. If you frost it too soon, the frosting may melt or slide off.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially eggs and Cool Whip, are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix evenly and results in a fluffier cake.
• Not measuring accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use the correct measurements for ingredients like cake mix and pudding to ensure the right texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined when preparing the cake batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light and fluffy texture you want.
• Storing improperly: Always store leftover cake in an airtight container. This helps maintain its moisture and freshness for longer periods.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item The cake will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pig Pickin Cake

• item Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap.
• item Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Pig Pickin Cake

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each slice on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, heating slices for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pig Pickin Cake?

Pig Pickin Cake is a light dessert made from a white cake mix, mandarin oranges, and topped with creamy pineapple frosting. It’s refreshing and perfect for gatherings!

Can I customize my Pig Pickin Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or coconut flakes for added texture or use different fruit flavors for your frosting.

How should I serve Pig Pickin Cake?

This cake is best served chilled. Cut into squares and garnish with extra fruit if desired!

Can I use homemade frosting instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can make your own whipped topping using heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract if you prefer a homemade option.

Final Thoughts

Pig Pickin Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its refreshing flavors make it perfect for summer gatherings or any festive occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings! Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful dessert that everyone will love.

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Pineapple Orange Cake

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Pineapple Orange Cake, affectionately known as Pig Pickin Cake, is a light and refreshing dessert that brings tropical flavors to any gathering. With its moist texture and creamy pineapple frosting, this easy-to-make cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or simply enjoying after dinner. The delightful combination of mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple creates a vibrant flavor profile that will impress your guests without the guilt. Enjoy this nearly guilt-free recipe that fits seamlessly into various occasions while offering a unique twist on traditional desserts.

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box white cake mix
• 1 can mandarin oranges (15 oz), undrained
• 4 egg whites
• 1/3 cup applesauce
• 1 can crushed pineapple (20 oz), undrained
• 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
• 12 oz Cool Whip, thawed

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with baking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine white cake mix, mandarin oranges, egg whites, and applesauce. Beat for two minutes until blended, then pour into the prepared dish.
3. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
4. For the frosting, mix crushed pineapple and instant vanilla pudding in a bowl until well combined. Fold in the thawed Cool Whip gently.
5. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (90g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Consider adding toasted coconut or chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch. This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or ice cream for serving.