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Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12-15 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free cake mix is used)

Description

Sunshine Cake, also known as Pig Pickin Cake, is a light and refreshing Southern dessert perfect for summer gatherings. Featuring a fluffy yellow cake base layered with juicy crushed pineapple, tangy mandarin oranges, and a creamy mixture of cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and whipped topping, this cake offers a delightful balance of fruity sweetness and creamy texture. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, it’s ideal for potlucks, barbecues, and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base

  • 1 box yellow cake mix

Fruit

  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 can (11 oz) mandarin orange segments, drained (or fresh mandarin segments)

Cream Cheese Topping

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip)

Instructions

  1. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the yellow cake mix instructions. Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let the cake cool completely before proceeding.
  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated and silky. Gently fold in the whipped topping, combining until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Add the Fruit and Layers: Thoroughly drain the canned crushed pineapple to prevent sogginess, then spread it evenly over the cooled cake layer. Next, spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the pineapple layer.
  4. Top with Mandarin Oranges: Arrange the drained mandarin orange segments evenly on top of the cream cheese layer, adding vibrant color and fresh citrus flavor. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure pineapple and mandarin oranges are well drained to prevent sogginess in the cake.
  • Bring cream cheese and butter to room temperature before mixing for a smoother cream cheese layer.
  • Chill the finished cake for several hours or overnight for best flavor development.
  • Use fresh fruit instead of canned when possible; just make sure to drain or pat dry thoroughly.
  • Fold whipped topping gently into the cream cheese mixture to keep the frosting light and airy.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern United States

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Sunshine Cake, Pig Pickin Cake, Southern dessert, summer cake, pineapple cake, mandarin orange dessert, cream cheese frosting, easy summer dessert

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/sunshine-cake-pig-pickin-cake/