Description
Pig Pickin’ Cake is a light and fruity dessert perfect for gatherings, featuring a moist yellow cake infused with mandarin oranges and a creamy pineapple-pudding topping. This easy-to-make layered cake combines bright citrus flavors and a fluffy whipped topping, chilled to perfection for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 package yellow cake mix (regular size)
- 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, undrained
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
Topping
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 package (1 ounce) sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 carton (8 ounces) reduced-fat whipped topping
Instructions
- Create the batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, undrained mandarin oranges, egg whites, and unsweetened applesauce. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on low speed for about two minutes until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. Pour the cake batter into the dish and use a mini offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the surface for uniform baking.
- Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked. Once done, remove the cake and allow it to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack.
- Make the topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed pineapple with its juice and the sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Gently fold in the reduced-fat whipped topping just until everything is combined, maintaining a light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble and chill: Spread the pineapple and whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake using the back of a spoon or a mini offset spatula. Create swoops or peaks in the topping for an attractive finish. Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to firm up.
Notes
- Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature to achieve a lighter cake texture.
- Using reduced-fat whipped topping helps keep the dessert lighter without sacrificing creaminess.
- Chilling the cake for at least an hour enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
- This cake is best served cold and is perfect for potlucks or picnic-style events.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
