Pickin Cake Recipe – American Special
Known as a Southern dessert favorite, this Pickin’ Cake recipe (also thought of as a citrus layer cake) features tender yellow cake bursting with mandarin oranges, all topped with a creamy pineapple-pudding frosting. It’s a refreshing potluck treat that’s light, fruity, and perfect for summer celebrations or anytime you want a slice of sunshine at the table.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Perform Time15 min
- Total Time40 min
For the cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained (reserve the juice)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the frosting:
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice)
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and drained mandarin oranges (save the juice for later).
Mix the batter until smooth, about 2 minutes, then pour it evenly into the prepared cake pans or baking dish.
Bake according to the package instructions (usually 25-30 minutes for round pans, or 30-35 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pans before frosting.
Make the Frosting:
In a medium bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, instant vanilla pudding mix, and powdered sugar. Stir well to combine.
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
If the frosting is too thick, you can add a small amount of the reserved mandarin orange juice to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, remove it from the pans and place it on a serving platter.
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the pineapple-pudding frosting mixture, spreading it evenly.
If you’re using round layers, place one layer on top of the other and frost the entire cake.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to firm up.
Serve chilled, and enjoy the light, refreshing flavors of this Southern favorite!
Recipe Notes :
This is a great make-ahead dessert—prepare and chill in the fridge so the frosting settles perfectly and layers taste better the next day.
Always a layer cake showstopper—the vibrant citrus and creamy pineapple combo looks gorgeous when served straight from the fridge, ideal for gatherings.
Best served cool and fruity—keep chilled until serving to maintain its refreshing texture and bright flavors.
