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Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

Moist Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) to Brighten Your Day

This Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) is a vibrant dessert that combines a moist yellow cake with zesty orange notes, creating a delightful treat for any gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 box Yellow Cake Mix Substitute with gluten-free cake mix if needed.
  • 1 can Mandarin Oranges With juice for moisture and flavor.
  • 4 large Eggs Applesauce can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Melted coconut oil can be used for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract is a good alternative.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Coarse Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
For the Frosting
  • 8 ounces Frozen Whipped Topping Thawed; whipped cream can be a fresher option.
  • 1 cup Crushed Pineapple Drained; fresh pineapple for intensity.
  • 1 box Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix Consider other flavors for variation.
For Garnishing
  • As desired Maraschino Cherries For visual appeal.
  • As desired Pineapple Slices For flavor enhancement.
  • As desired Mandarin Oranges Use fresh fruit for healthier options.

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • electric mixer
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Baking Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. In a bowl, mix cake mix, mandarin oranges with juice, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla, and salt for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour batter into the baking dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
  4. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for 30 minutes.
  5. In a bowl, fold whipped topping, crushed pineapple, and pudding mix until smooth.
  6. Spread frosting over cooled cake evenly.
  7. Garnish with cherries, pineapple slices, and mandarin oranges before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Allow cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting. Test for doneness with a toothpick.

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