Sink your fork into the ultimate Southern classic with this Mandarin Orange Pineapple Cake, affectionately known as Pig Pickin’ Cake! Bursting with tropical flavors, this irresistibly moist dessert starts with a tender yellow cake that's infused with the natural sweetness of juicy mandarin oranges. Topped with a luscious, cloud-like frosting made from crushed pineapple, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, every bite is a harmony of fruity freshness and indulgent sweetness. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings, its vibrant flavor and easy preparation make it a crowd-pleaser that's always in demand. Serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture, and let this delightful dessert take center stage at your next occasion!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or a 9x13-inch pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, mandarin oranges (including juice), and vegetable oil. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until fully combined and smooth, about 2 minutes.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then gently turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and crushed pineapple (with juice) until thickened. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping and powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
If making a layered cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of frosting over the top, then add the second layer and repeat. For a sheet cake, spread an even layer of frosting over the top.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld and the frosting set.
Slice and serve cold. Enjoy your refreshing Mandarin Orange Pineapple Cake!
Calories |
4696 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 209.4 g | 268% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.6 g | 318% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 67.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 2739 mg | 119% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 707.2 g | 257% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.4 g | 55% | |
| Total Sugars | 413.6 g | ||
| Protein | 49.8 g | 100% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.0 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 675 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 12.8 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 1730 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.