Easy Pig Pickin’ Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a perfect balance of light and airy cake with a creamy, tropical topping. The use of mandarin oranges and pineapple adds a refreshing fruitiness that pairs wonderfully with the moist yellow cake. The sugar-free vanilla pudding mix and reduced-fat whipped topping create a fluffy and decadent topping without being too heavy. It’s a quick and easy dessert that’s both delicious and light, making it ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 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

For the 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, undrained mandarin oranges (with their juice), egg whites, and applesauce. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
5. Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
6. While the cake is cooling, prepare the topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the undrained crushed pineapple, sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, and reduced-fat whipped topping. Stir until smooth and well combined.
7. Once the cake has cooled, spread the pineapple topping evenly over the cake.
8. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare, plus cooling and chilling time.

Variations

• Fruit variations: Try using different canned fruits like peaches or mixed fruit for a fun twist.
• Make it sweeter: If you like a sweeter cake, you can add a little extra sugar or honey to the cake batter or topping.
• Add nuts: For some crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cake before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This cake can be frozen without the topping. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and add the topping before serving.
• Reheating: This cake is best served chilled, but you can enjoy it at room temperature if preferred.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?

Yes, you can substitute whole eggs for egg whites. However, the texture of the cake may be slightly denser, and the calories may increase.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes! You can experiment with different cake mixes, such as lemon, orange, or white cake mix, to change the flavor profile of the cake.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes, fresh fruit can be used instead of canned, though you may need to adjust the amount of juice or syrup for the topping. Fresh mandarins or oranges can replace the canned mandarins, and fresh pineapple can be substituted for the crushed canned variety.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This recipe uses regular yellow cake mix, which typically contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free cake mix instead.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake is great for making ahead. You can prepare it the day before and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Can I use full-fat whipped topping?

Yes, you can use full-fat whipped topping if you prefer a richer topping. However, the reduced-fat version helps keep the cake lighter.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Be sure to check it toward the end of the baking time.

Can I add more fruit to the cake batter?

Yes, you can add extra fruit like diced pineapple, peaches, or berries to the cake batter for more flavor and texture.

How can I make this cake more decadent?

For a richer flavor, you can add a layer of cream cheese frosting beneath the pineapple topping or drizzle some sweetened condensed milk over the cake before adding the topping.

Can I use a different type of pudding mix for the topping?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of instant pudding mix, such as banana or coconut, to create unique variations of this cake.

Conclusion

Easy Pig Pickin’ Cake is the perfect dessert for those who love a light, fruity, and refreshing treat. With its soft, moist cake and tropical fruit topping, it’s a fun and simple dessert that can be made in no time. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or just craving something sweet, this cake will always be a crowd favorite. Enjoy the light and refreshing flavors in every bite!

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