Description
This Pineapple Orange Cake, also known as Pig Pickin’ Cake, is a delightful, fruity dessert perfect for gatherings. Combining the sweetness of mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple with a light yellow cake base, it’s topped with a creamy vanilla pudding and whipped topping mixture, then garnished with fresh orange slices for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 11 ounces mandarin oranges (1 can, undrained)
- 4 egg whites
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
Topping
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple (1 can, undrained)
- 3.5 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, sugar-free optional)
- 8 ounces reduced fat whipped topping (1 carton, e.g., Cool Whip)
- Sliced oranges or mandarin orange segments (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the yellow cake mix, undrained mandarin oranges, egg whites, and unsweetened applesauce on low speed for 2 minutes until fully combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish that has been coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the undrained crushed pineapple with the instant vanilla pudding mix. Gently fold in the reduced fat whipped topping until just blended to create a creamy topping.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the pineapple-pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the cake with sliced oranges or mandarin orange segments for an attractive presentation and extra citrus flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute sugar-free instant pudding mix to reduce sugar content.
- Using egg whites and applesauce instead of whole eggs and oil lowers fat and calories.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding the topping to prevent it from melting.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour but it can also be kept overnight for better flavor development.
- This cake is best served chilled on a warm day or as a light dessert option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
