Pig Pickin’ Cake Recipe Pioneer Woman: Mandarin Orange Pineapple Delight

This Southern classic brings a taste of tradition to your table with its perfect balance of citrus and cream. I first encountered it at a barbecue in Atlanta, where its refreshing sweetness cut through the smoky richness of pulled pork.

The recipe combines mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple for a bright, tangy base, folded into a moist cake that’s topped with a cloud of whipped cream cheese frosting. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast at gatherings.

What makes it special is how the fruit keeps the cake incredibly tender while adding a subtle tropical note. The frosting, light yet rich, ties everything together without overwhelming the delicate flavors.

Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any day you want a slice of Southern charm. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients for Pig Pickin’ Cake Recipe Pioneer Woman

Pantry staples plus a few canned fruits make this Southern cake a breeze.

The canned fruit is non-negotiable here. Dole for the pineapple (20 oz can) and mandarin oranges (11 oz can) are what you’ll find in most Walmart or Kroger aisles. Look for the ones packed in their own juice, not syrup—it keeps the cake from getting cloying. The vanilla pudding mix might seem old-school, but Jell-O brand is what the original recipe calls for and it just works.

Out of crushed pineapple? Fresh pineapple pulsed in a food processor works in a pinch (just drain it well). No mandarin oranges? Clementines peeled and segmented get you close. For the frosting, Cool Whip at half the cream lightens it up, but the real stuff tastes better. The pudding mix can be sugar-free if you’re watching that sort of thing.

Cake stays moist for 3 days at room temp (covered, of course). The frosting holds up for 2 days in the fridge. Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 3 months—just thaw and frost when ready.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mandarin Orange Pineapple Delight

This foolproof method delivers a moist cake with a creamy frosting that everyone will love.

Step 1: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients for the Cake

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups All-Purpose Flour, 2 cups Granulated Sugar, 1 tsp Baking Soda, and 0.5 tsp Salt until evenly combined. I like to sift the flour first to avoid any lumps in the batter.

Add the 2 whole Large Eggs, 0.5 cup Vegetable Oil, and 1 tsp Vanilla Extract to the dry mixture. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well incorporated. The batter will be thick at this point, but don’t worry—it will loosen up once the fruit is added.

Step 2: Fold in Fruits for Moisture and Flavor

Drain the 1 can Mandarin Oranges thoroughly, then fold them into the batter along with the undrained 1 can Crushed Pineapple. The pineapple juice adds natural sweetness and keeps the cake incredibly moist.

Mix just until the fruits are evenly distributed—overmixing can make the cake dense. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and spread it evenly. I always line my pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Springy

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and springs back lightly when touched with a finger.

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking, as this cake stays moist from the fruit. Let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting—this usually takes about 1 hour.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the 8 oz Cream Cheese and 0.5 cup Butter together until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed with an electric mixer.

Gradually add the 3.5 cups Powdered Sugar and 1 package Vanilla Pudding Mix, mixing on low speed until combined. Then pour in the 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream and beat on high for another 2 minutes until light and fluffy. The frosting should hold its shape when spread but still be smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Frost and Chill for the Perfect Finish

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. I like to use an offset spatula for a smooth finish, but a regular knife works just fine.

For best results, refrigerate the frosted cake for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the frosting to set slightly and the flavors to meld together. The cake tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time.

Serving Suggestions for This pig pickin cake recipe pioneer woman

Classic Presentation

Serve this cake straight from the 9×13-inch pan at room temperature for that authentic Southern potluck feel. I love using a simple offset spatula to slice clean portions. The bright orange flecks from the mandarins make every slice look inviting. 💛

Garnish Ideas

Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or chopped pecans on top of the frosting for extra texture. David swears by maraschino cherries arranged in a pattern—it reminds him of his grandmother’s cakes. Fresh pineapple wedges add a pop of color and reinforce the flavor theme.

Portion Sizes

For a crowd, cut into 12 generous squares as the recipe intends. For a more elegant presentation, I sometimes make 24 smaller pieces using a sharp knife and a ruler for precision. This works perfectly for bridals or church socials.

Serving Temperature

While the cake can be served chilled, I find it’s at its best after sitting at room temperature for 30 minutes after refrigeration. The frosting softens just enough to be creamy without being runny. This is how Nana Mae always served it at the diner.

Beverage Pairings

Sweet tea is the classic choice—its crisp bitterness balances the cake’s richness. For something different, try cold brew coffee with a splash of cream. The acidity cuts through the sweetness beautifully. 🍹

Special Occasions

This cake shines at summer picnics and barbecues. I always get requests to bring it to Fourth of July gatherings. The bright flavors complement grilled meats perfectly, just like that first time I tasted it in Atlanta.

Frequently Asked Questions