Pig Pickin Cake Recipe

Yellow cake mix: The base of the cake, providing a rich and moist texture.

Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding structure to the cake.

Mandarin oranges: Adds a burst of citrus flavor and moisture to the cake.

Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.

Crushed pineapple: Used in the frosting for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Instant vanilla pudding mix: Thickens the frosting and adds a creamy texture.

Cool whip: A light and fluffy topping that makes the frosting smooth and airy.

When mixing the cake mix with the eggs, mandarin oranges with juice, and vegetable oil, be sure to use a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed. This ensures that the batter is well-aerated, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake. Additionally, when preparing the frosting, make sure the cool whip is fully thawed to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

• yellow cake mix - Substitute with white cake mix: White cake mix can be used as it has a similar texture and flavor profile, though the color will be slightly different.

• eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Use ¼ cup of applesauce per egg. This works well for binding and adds moisture to the cake.

• undrained mandarin oranges - Substitute with undrained canned peaches: Canned peaches provide a similar sweetness and moisture content, though the flavor will be slightly different.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with melted butter: Melted butter can be used to add a richer flavor and similar fat content.

• undrained crushed pineapple - Substitute with undrained crushed peaches: Crushed peaches offer a similar texture and moisture, though the flavor will be slightly different.

• instant vanilla pudding mix - Substitute with instant banana pudding mix: Banana pudding mix can add a complementary flavor while maintaining the same texture.

• cool whip - Substitute with whipped cream: Whipped cream can be used for a similar light and fluffy texture, though it may not be as stable over time.

• To keep your Pig Pickin Cake fresh and delightful, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the cake's moisture and the cool whip frosting's texture.
• If you plan to enjoy the cake over several days, slice it into individual servings before storing. This makes it easier to grab a piece without exposing the entire cake to air each time.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. First, ensure the cake is completely cooled and frosted. Then, place it in the freezer uncovered for about an hour to firm up the frosting.
• Once the frosting is firm, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and preserves the cake's flavor.
• Label each wrapped slice with the date and type of cake. This way, you can keep track of how long it's been in the freezer.
• When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the cake's texture and flavor.
• Avoid storing the cake at room temperature for extended periods, as the cool whip frosting can become too soft and the cake may dry out.
• If you have leftover crushed pineapple or mandarin oranges, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use them within a few days for other recipes or as a refreshing snack.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the Pig Pickin Cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the frosting from melting too much. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the cake's moisture and texture.

• If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place a slice of Pig Pickin Cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe cover or another plate to avoid drying out. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed, but be cautious not to overheat, as the cool whip frosting can become runny.

• For a slightly unconventional method, try using a steamer. Place the Pig Pickin Cake on a heatproof plate and set it in the steamer basket. Steam for about 5-7 minutes. This method can help keep the cake moist and the frosting intact.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the Pig Pickin Cake in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not too close to the heating element. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method can give the cake a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist.

• For a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Place the Pig Pickin Cake on a heatproof plate and set it over simmering water. Cover with a lid and steam for about 5-7 minutes. This gentle heating method helps maintain the cake's texture and flavor.

• Oven: Used to bake the cake at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the cake mix, eggs, mandarin oranges with juice, and vegetable oil.

• Cake pan: The container where you pour the batter to bake the cake.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.

• Spatula: Handy for spreading the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

• Refrigerator: Necessary for chilling the frosting and refrigerating the cake before serving.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the vegetable oil accurately.

• Can opener: Needed to open the cans of mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple.

• Whisk: Useful for mixing the crushed pineapple with juice, instant vanilla pudding mix, and cool whip to make the frosting.

• Cooling rack: Ideal for allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Use pre-greased pans: Save time by using pre-greased cake pans to avoid the hassle of greasing and flouring.

Combine ingredients efficiently: Mix the cake mix, eggs, mandarin oranges, and vegetable oil all at once to streamline the process.

Chill frosting ahead: Prepare the frosting with crushed pineapple, vanilla pudding mix, and cool whip while the cake bakes, then chill it immediately.

Cool cake quickly: Speed up cooling by placing the cake on a wire rack to allow air circulation.

Refrigerate efficiently: Cut the cake into pieces before refrigerating to ensure it chills faster.