Name: Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 (15.25 ounce) orange or yellow cake mix; 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained (reserve ½ cup juice); 4 large eggs, room temperature; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 12 ounces frozen whipped topping (CoolWhip), thawed; 2 (8 ounce) cans crushed pineapple in juice, drained; 1 (3.4 ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding mix; Fresh mint leaves; Additional mandarin oranges

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 79 reviews

If you have been searching for a bright, refreshing dessert that brings a burst of citrus and creamy sweetness in every bite, you are going to love this Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe. This cake boasts a tender orange-flavored base that’s perfectly moist and topped with a luscious pineapple and whipped topping layer that makes every forkful feel like a celebration. The combination of mandarin oranges and pineapple lends a tropical flair that’s both nostalgic and exciting, making it an absolute favorite for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sunny afternoon treat. Trust me, once you try this Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe, it will quickly earn its place as one of your go-to desserts!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large clear glass bowl holds a mixture of six broken eggs with bright yellow yolks, white flour sprinkled over, a long stick of pale yellow butter resting on top, and bright orange mandarin segments scattered around the sides. Around this bowl on a white marbled surface are four cracked white eggshells inside another clear glass bowl, a small bowl with more bright orange mandarin pieces, a tiny empty clear bowl, a dark bottle with a red cap, metal measuring spoons, and beaters for a mixer. A blue and white checkered towel is nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe lies in the simplicity and harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from providing the cake’s moist texture to delivering the tangy and sweet tropical flavors that make this dessert unforgettable.

Orange or yellow cake mix: This forms the light, fluffy base with a subtle citrus hint that pairs beautifully with the toppings.
Mandarin oranges, canned: Adds juicy bursts of sweet citrus and keeps the texture tender; keep ½ cup of juice for extra flavor in the batter.
Large eggs, room temperature: Ensures proper binding and a perfect crumb in the cake.
Unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, enriching the cake’s flavor without overpowering it.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the citrus notes.
Frozen whipped topping (thawed): Gives the cake its creamy, fluffy frosting layer with a cool texture.
Crushed pineapple in juice: Infuses tropical sweetness and helps keep the topping moist and flavorful.
Instant French vanilla pudding mix: Acts as the thickening agent in the topping, creating a velvety smooth finish.
Optional garnish – fresh mint leaves and extra mandarin oranges: Elevates both presentation and flavor with fresh herbal and fruity notes.

How to Make Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Pan and Preheating

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch cake pan and spray it generously with cooking spray to ensure your cake doesn’t stick. This simple prep step paves the way for a perfect bake and easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Mixing the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange or yellow cake mix with the drained mandarin oranges, making sure to reserve ½ cup of their juice to add into the batter for that extra citrus punch. Add the eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to blend everything just until smooth — about 2 to 3 minutes — being careful to stop once no streaks of flour remain. This careful mixing ensures a tender, moist crumb without overworking the batter.

Step 3: Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. To test if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center — you want it to come out with just a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake wonderfully soft. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack, which prepares it perfectly for the luscious frosting to come.

Step 4: Preparing the Topping

While the cake is cooling, whisk together the drained crushed pineapple and the instant French vanilla pudding mix in a large bowl. Once combined, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping with a spatula. This creates the creamy, tropical frosting that so beautifully balances the bright citrus cake beneath. The textures and flavors meld together like a dream.

Step 5: Frosting the Cake

Spread this luscious pineapple-pudding layer over the completely cooled cake, smoothing it out evenly. You don’t want any cake crumbs sneaking into this creamy topping! If you like, garnish with reserved mandarin oranges or fresh mint leaves to make it extra special. Once frosted, cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least one hour to set that heavenly topping before serving.

How to Serve Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe

A glass rectangular dish filled with a yellow cake base at the bottom layer, topped with a thick layer of white whipped cream mixed with fruit pieces, evenly spread. On top of the whipped cream layer, there are bright orange mandarin slices and green mint leaves arranged in rows, each piece of cake cut into squares. A slice is removed from the dish and placed on a white plate in the background. The dish is on a white marbled surface with a light blue patterned cloth in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh mint leaves and a few extra mandarin oranges on top is an easy way to make your Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe shine. The mint adds a refreshing herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, fruity flavors. Plus, the glossy orange segments give the cake a festive, mouthwatering look that will impress everyone.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad or a simple vanilla ice cream scoop for extra indulgence. Since it’s such a fruity, refreshing dessert, you want to complement it with dishes that don’t compete but rather enhance its tropical charm. I also love serving it alongside fresh berries for added texture and flavor variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe the centerpiece of your dessert table by serving it in neat squares on pretty plates with a sprig of mint on top. For a party, put it out in a clear trifle dish to show off the colorful layers, or even cut it into small bite-size portions for easy grab-and-go enjoyment. The vibrant colors and textures make it perfect for spring and summer celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve enjoyed your cake, simply cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Because of the whipped topping and fresh fruit, keeping it chilled helps maintain freshness and texture for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. I recommend freezing the cake layer alone to keep its texture intact — wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before popping it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge and then add the pineapple whipped topping fresh.

Reheating

This Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. However, if you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften just a bit without losing its refreshing, creamy qualities.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade orange or yellow cake recipe, feel free to swap it in. Just make sure it’s a sturdy, moist cake that will hold up under the creamy pineapple topping.

Do I need to drain the pineapple and mandarin oranges very well?

Yes, draining both fruits thoroughly is key to preventing excess moisture that could make the cake soggy. Leaving a little juice for mixing is perfect, but too much liquid will affect the texture.

Is this cake suitable for large gatherings?

Definitely! This recipe yields about 20 servings, making it ideal for potlucks, parties, or pig pickin’ events. It’s easy to make in a big batch and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, substitute the butter for a dairy-free alternative and look for dairy-free whipped topping options. Check the pudding mix ingredients or use a homemade dairy-free pudding recipe to keep things safe for sensitive eaters.

Why is this called Pig Pickin’ Cake?

The name Pig Pickin’ Cake comes from southern tradition, where casual pig pickin’ barbecues featured this refreshing, easy-to-serve dessert. It’s a beloved recipe that pairs perfectly with outdoor gatherings and hearty meals.

Final Thoughts

This Mandarin Orange Cake (Pig Pickin’ Cake) Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly transports you to joyful moments with family and friends. It’s vibrant, comforting, and surprisingly simple to pull together. I can’t recommend it enough — whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake is destined to become a treasured favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and watch everyone’s faces light up when they take a bite!