Pig Pickin’ Cake is the ultimate Southern dessert that’s been a beloved favorite at church potlucks, family gatherings, and summer barbecues for generations. This delightfully moist and fruity cake gets its charming name from the way guests inevitably pick at it with their fingers—it’s just that irresistible! The combination of crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, and a fluffy cake base creates a texture that’s both light and incredibly satisfying, while the creamy frosting ties everything together into pure dessert bliss.
What makes Pig Pickin’ Cake so special is its simplicity and reliability. Unlike some desserts that require precise timing or temperamental techniques, this cake practically makes itself. The pineapple juice keeps the cake wonderfully moist, ensuring that even days later (if it lasts that long!), each bite remains tender and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing this for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this recipe delivers consistent, impressive results every single time.
The beauty of this Southern classic lies in its versatility and crowd-pleasing nature. You can serve it at room temperature for casual gatherings or chilled for those hot summer days when you need something refreshing. The combination of bright maraschino cherries and sweet pineapple creates a cheerful, celebratory appearance that makes this cake as visually appealing as it is delicious. For more decadent dessert inspiration, check out our collection of indulgent treats.
Making Pig Pickin’ Cake is also an excellent baking project for beginners or for anyone looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are pantry staples, the technique is straightforward, and the results are always stunning. From the moment the cake emerges from the oven, your kitchen will be filled with the most wonderful aromas. The frosting comes together quickly with just a few ingredients, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to serve in no time.
This recipe has been passed down through countless Southern kitchens, and each family adds their own special touch. Some prefer their frosting extra thick, while others like it more spreadable. Some add a touch of rum or almond extract for depth, while purists stick to the classic version. The wonderful thing about Pig Pickin’ Cake is that it welcomes personalization while maintaining its essential charm and deliciousness. If you’re looking for other crowd-pleasing desserts, our easy entertaining recipes have plenty of inspiration.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this Pig Pickin’ Cake recipe will become a treasured favorite in your collection. It’s the kind of dessert that people request by name, that disappears quickly at potlucks, and that brings back fond memories of simpler times and sweeter moments. Get ready to discover why this beloved Southern dessert has remained a staple for so many decades!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the cake mix according to package directions, but instead of using water, substitute with the crushed pineapple and its juice. This adds incredible moisture and flavor to the cake base.
- Pour the prepared cake batter into your greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes while you prepare the frosting.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts completely.
- Pour in the evaporated milk slowly, continuing to stir constantly to combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to thicken slightly. Do not allow it to boil vigorously.
- Remove the frosting mixture from heat and stir in the flaked coconut, chopped maraschino cherries, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Working quickly while the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork or wooden skewer. This allows the frosting to seep into the cake and keep it moist.
- Pour the warm frosting mixture evenly over the warm cake, making sure to cover the entire surface and allowing it to drip into all the holes you’ve created.
- Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Pro Tips
Chilled Serving: Refrigerating the cake for several hours or overnight makes it firmer and easier to slice into neat portions. The cold temperature also makes the frosting set up beautifully.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake actually improves after sitting for a day or two, as the flavors meld together and the cake becomes even more moist. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Frosting Consistency: If your frosting seems too thin, let it cool for a few minutes before pouring over the cake. If it’s too thick, you can thin it with a tablespoon or two of milk.
Cherrry Selection: You can use the traditional bright red maraschino cherries, or try the more natural-looking cherries available at specialty stores if you prefer a less sweet appearance.
Coconut Preference: If you’re not a coconut fan, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely. The cake is equally delicious without it.
Pineapple Tip: Always use canned crushed pineapple with its juice for this recipe. The juice is essential for keeping the cake moist and flavorful.
Party Planning: This recipe doubles easily if you need to serve a larger crowd. Use two 9×13 pans and double all ingredients.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract is important for enhancing the overall flavor profile. Don’t skip it, as it adds depth to the frosting.
Storage: Keep leftover cake covered in the refrigerator. The frosting helps preserve the cake, so it stays fresh longer than most cakes.
Gluten-Free Option: You can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix as a direct substitute if needed.
Decorative Touch: Add extra maraschino cherries on top of the frosted cake for a prettier presentation if serving for a special occasion.