Pineapple Orange Cake – Easy & Moist Pig Pickin’ Cake Recipe

There’s something undeniably nostalgic and comforting about a slice of pineapple orange cake, better known in the South as Pig Pickin’ Cake. This light, fruity, and refreshing dessert has been a staple at picnics, potlucks, and backyard barbecues for generations. The combination of fluffy cake, mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and a creamy Cool Whip frosting makes every bite taste like sunshine.

The origins of Pig Pickin’ Cake trace back to Southern barbecue gatherings, where this cake was a favorite sweet treat to serve after a hearty meal. The name Pig Pickin’ Cake comes from the traditional pig roasts where guests would “pick” at a whole roasted pig while enjoying delicious side dishes and desserts. This cake, with its bright citrus flavors and ultra-moist texture, quickly became a crowd favorite.

This dessert is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering, a family reunion, or just a treat to brighten up an ordinary day. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers an impressive result that will have everyone asking for seconds. Once you try it, you’ll see why this cake has remained a beloved classic for decades.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pineapple orange cake is a true gem for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not an experienced baker. Since the recipe starts with a boxed cake mix, there’s no need to measure out flour, sugar, or baking powder. Everything comes together effortlessly with just a few additional ingredients.

Another reason to love this cake is its texture. Thanks to the mandarin oranges, the cake turns out light, airy, and wonderfully moist. There’s no dry, crumbly cake here—just soft, delicate layers that practically melt in your mouth.

The frosting is another standout feature. Unlike heavy buttercream or overly sweet frosting, this one is made with whipped topping, crushed pineapple, and instant vanilla pudding. It’s creamy, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. Plus, it adds a cool, refreshing contrast to the cake’s citrusy notes.

This cake is also a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Since it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours, you can prepare it in advance and have it ready to serve whenever you need it. Whether you’re planning a party or just want a dessert waiting for you at the end of the day, this cake fits the bill.

Finally, the tropical flavors make this cake a perfect treat for warm-weather gatherings. The combination of pineapple and orange gives it a bright, summery taste that pairs well with barbecue, grilled dishes, and light salads. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and always a hit with guests of all ages.

Health Benefits

While this cake is undoubtedly a sweet indulgence, it does have a few surprising benefits. The inclusion of fruit, for example, adds some essential vitamins and nutrients. Mandarin oranges and pineapple are both packed with vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.

Another plus is that this cake is naturally lower in fat compared to traditional cakes that use butter-heavy frostings. Instead of butter, the recipe uses applesauce, which keeps the cake moist without adding extra fat. Additionally, the frosting relies on Cool Whip instead of heavy cream or cream cheese, making it a lighter option.

The fruit also adds natural sweetness, reducing the need for excessive sugar. While this cake is still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation, it offers a better alternative to dense, overly rich cakes that can feel heavy after a meal.

If you want to make this cake even healthier, you can use a sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, a light whipped topping, and a whole-grain cake mix. Small tweaks like these can make a big difference while keeping the cake just as delicious.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)

Servings

• Serves: 12 people

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 275
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fiber: 1g

Ingredients List

For the Cake

• 1 box white cake mix
• 4 egg whites
• 1 cup canned mandarin oranges (with juice)
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce

For the Frosting

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed

Optional Garnishes

• Extra mandarin orange slices
• Shredded coconut
• Chopped pecans

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, egg whites, applesauce, and mandarin oranges with their juice. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend everything together. The batter should be smooth, with small bits of mandarin oranges dispersed throughout.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out so that it bakes evenly.

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.

Step 3: Cool the Cake Completely

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan. If desired, transfer it to a wire rack to cool faster. It’s important to let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and crushed pineapple with its juice. Stir well to ensure the pudding mix dissolves.

Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the frosting to lose its light and fluffy texture.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to create smooth, even layers.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the frosting even creamier.

Garnish with extra mandarin orange slices, shredded coconut, or chopped pecans for a decorative touch. Slice and enjoy!

How to Serve

This cake is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and makes an excellent dessert for summer cookouts.

Pairing Suggestions

Pineapple orange cake is a light and refreshing dessert, making it an excellent choice to serve with a variety of complementary foods and beverages. Because of its bright citrus flavors, it pairs best with fresh, mildly sweet, and slightly tangy accompaniments.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea – A tall glass of Southern-style sweet tea or lightly sweetened peach iced tea balances the cake’s fruity flavors.
• Fresh Lemonade – The tartness of lemonade contrasts beautifully with the cake’s sweetness, making for a well-balanced combination.
• Coffee or Espresso – A hot cup of black coffee or a smooth espresso helps cut through the cake’s creamy frosting and enhances its citrus notes.

Food Pairings

• Grilled Chicken or Fish – This cake is often served at barbecues, and it pairs wonderfully with lightly seasoned grilled chicken or fish, such as lemon herb chicken or grilled tilapia.
• Fresh Fruit Salad – A side of mixed berries, mango chunks, or pineapple slices adds an extra layer of freshness and complements the cake’s flavors.
• Light Salads – A simple arugula or spinach salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the cake’s sweetness without feeling too heavy.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

How to Store the Cake

This pineapple orange cake is best kept in the refrigerator due to its creamy frosting. Here’s how to store it properly:

• In the Refrigerator – Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious after a day or two.
• At Room Temperature – Because of the Cool Whip frosting, it is not recommended to store the cake at room temperature for more than 2 hours. The frosting can become too soft and lose its texture.

Can You Freeze Pineapple Orange Cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake for longer storage. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Freeze Before Frosting – If you plan to make the cake ahead of time, bake the cake as directed, let it cool completely, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding the frosting.
2. Freeze With Frosting – If you’ve already frosted the cake, cut it into slices and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours, then transfer the frozen slices into an airtight container with parchment paper between each layer. Store for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat or Thaw Frozen Cake

• If you froze the cake before frosting, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, add the frosting and let it chill before serving.
• If you froze the frosted cake, simply remove a slice and let it sit in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours before eating. You can also let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, but avoid leaving it out too long to maintain the frosting’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this cake is easy to make, a few mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

1. Overmixing the Batter

When mixing the cake batter, it’s important not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake instead of a light and fluffy texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

2. Not Draining the Pineapple Properly

For the frosting, make sure to mix the crushed pineapple with its juice, but do not add excess liquid. If the mixture seems too runny, let it sit for a few minutes, or drain a small amount of juice to prevent the frosting from becoming watery.

3. Skipping the Chilling Time

This cake tastes best after chilling for at least an hour. If you skip this step, the frosting may be too soft, and the flavors won’t have had time to meld properly.

4. Using Warm Cake for Frosting

Never frost the cake while it’s still warm. The heat will cause the Cool Whip-based frosting to melt, leading to a messy and runny texture. Always let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting.

5. Storing the Cake Improperly

Leaving the cake uncovered in the fridge can cause it to dry out. Always cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Avoiding these mistakes will ensure that your pineapple orange cake turns out perfect every time.

Pro Tips for the Best Pineapple Orange Cake

Want to make this cake even better? Here are some expert tips to take it to the next level.

1. Use Fresh Whipped Cream Instead of Cool Whip

If you prefer a more natural alternative, you can make homemade whipped cream instead of using store-bought Cool Whip. Simply whip 1 ½ cups of heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This will give the frosting an extra rich and creamy texture.

2. Toast the Coconut for Extra Flavor

If you’re garnishing the cake with shredded coconut, try toasting it in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This enhances the coconut’s flavor and adds a slight crunch.

3. Let the Cake Rest Overnight

For the best flavor, let the cake chill overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the fruit flavors to infuse into the cake, making it even more delicious.

4. Try Different Fruit Variations

While mandarin oranges and pineapple are classic, you can experiment with other fruit flavors. Try using diced peaches, mango, or even a combination of berries for a different twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a yellow cake mix instead of a white cake mix?

Yes! A yellow cake mix will give the cake a slightly richer, buttery flavor, but it will still work just as well.

2. What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?

If you don’t have instant pudding mix, you can use ½ cup of powdered sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch as a substitute. It won’t thicken quite as much, but it will still provide some structure.

3. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to blend it slightly to achieve the crushed texture. Also, make sure to add about ¼ cup of pineapple juice to keep the frosting moist.

4. How long does this cake last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 5 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Pineapple orange cake, or Pig Pickin’ Cake, is a simple yet flavorful dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake never disappoints.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, give this recipe a try! If you make this cake, let me know how it turned out. Share your experience in the comments or tag me on social media. Happy baking!

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