Go Back

Pineapple Pig Pickin Cake

A quintessential Southern delight, this Pineapple Pig Pickin Cake features a moist, tender yellow cake baked with crushed pineapple, topped with a light and airy whipped frosting infused with more crushed pineapple and sweet coconut flakes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 oz size
  • 1 can crushed pineapple 20 oz, undrained
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
For the Frosting
  • 1 container whipped topping 8 oz, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
  • 1 can crushed pineapple 8 oz, well drained
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Electric Mixer
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

Prepare the Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan, tapping out any excess flour.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, the undrained 20 oz can of crushed pineapple, vegetable oil, and large eggs. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  3. Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake.
  5. Remove the cake from the oven and place the pan on a wire cooling rack. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before proceeding to the frosting step. This is crucial for the frosting to set properly.
Prepare the Frosting
  1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the thawed whipped topping, the *well-drained* 8 oz can of crushed pineapple, powdered sugar, and shredded sweetened coconut.
  2. Gently fold the ingredients together until they are just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can deflate the whipped topping.
Assemble and Chill
  1. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the prepared frosting evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula.
  2. Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the frosting to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully.
  3. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy your Pineapple Pig Pickin Cake!

Notes

For best results, ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt. Draining the smaller can of pineapple for the frosting thoroughly is key to a stable frosting texture. Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.