Pig Pickin’ Cake

Recipes

Pig Pickin’ Cake

Ingredients

  • For the Cake:
    • 1 box yellow cake mix
    • 1 cup water
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 3 large eggs
    • 11 ounces mandarin oranges, drained and divided
  • For the Frosting:
    • 15 ounces crushed pineapple, drained
    • 3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix
    • 12 ounces Cool Whip, softened
  • For Garnish (Optional):
    • Reserved mandarin oranges
    • Maraschino cherries

Instructions

  1. Prepare for Baking:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease two 8-inch round cake pans with baking spray and set them aside.
  2. Make the Cake Batter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
    • Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until smooth.
    • Gently fold in most of the drained mandarin oranges, reserving a few slices for garnish if desired.
  3. Bake the Cakes:
    • Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 23–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15–20 minutes.
    • Carefully remove the cakes from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Prepare the Frosting:
    • In a medium bowl, mix together the drained crushed pineapple and the instant vanilla pudding mix until well combined.
    • Gently fold in the softened Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  5. Assemble the Cake:
    • Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate.
    • Spread about one-third of the frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
    • Place the second cake layer on top.
    • Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.
    • Garnish with the reserved mandarin oranges and maraschino cherries if desired.
  6. Chill and Serve:
    • Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
    • Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Cake Mix Preparation: Ensure you have any additional ingredients required by the cake mix package instructions (usually eggs, oil, and water).
  • Cool Whip Alternative: If preferred, you can substitute Cool Whip with stabilized whipped cream.
  • Storage: Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better when prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Enjoy your delicious Pig Pickin’ Cake!