Get ready to experience a slice of Southern heaven that'll make your taste buds dance with joy! This Mandarin Orange Pig Pickin Cake is not just a dessert; it's a nostalgic journey through Southern culinary traditions that promises to become an instant family favorite. With its incredibly moist texture, burst of citrusy mandarin oranges, and creamy pineapple-infused frosting, this cake is about to revolutionize your dessert game and become the star of every potluck, family gathering, and sweet craving.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with the drained mandarin oranges, including the oranges' juice. Mix thoroughly using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the oranges are well incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This typically takes about 45-60 minutes.
- While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by combining the whipped topping, instant vanilla pudding mix, and sugar in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the top of the cake.
- Carefully spread the prepared frosting over the pineapple layer, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
- Slice into 12 equal servings and garnish with additional mandarin orange segments if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother, more consistent cake batter.
- Drain Fruits Thoroughly: Make sure mandarin oranges and pineapple are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in your cake.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the cake batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
- Toothpick Test: Always check cake doneness with a toothpick - it should come out clean with no wet batter.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure perfect texture.
- Chill for Perfection: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let flavors meld and frosting set.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh mandarin orange segments can add a beautiful and delicious finishing touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 219kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
