Gluten-Free Pig Pickin’ Cake

Here’s a delicious Gluten-Free Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake that keeps all the bright, citrusy flavors of the original Southern favorite while being completely gluten-free! Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or anytime you crave a light, fruity dessert.

🍰 Gluten-Free Pig Pickin’ Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15 oz) gluten-free yellow cake mix (like King Arthur or Betty Crocker GF)

• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, undrained

• 3 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)

• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Frosting:

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip, or coconut whipped cream for dairy-free)

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (ensure gluten-free, like Jell-O)

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh mandarin orange slices

• Toasted coconut flakes

📝 Instructions

1. Make the GF Cake:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment.

• In a large bowl, mix GF cake mix, mandarin oranges (with juice), eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth (small orange bits are fine!).

• Pour into the pan and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

• Let cool completely before frosting.

2. Make the Frosting:

• In a bowl, whisk together whipped topping, drained pineapple, and pudding mix until creamy.

• Spread evenly over the cooled cake.

3. Chill & Serve:

• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set.

• Garnish with mandarin slices or coconut before serving.

🌟 Why This Works for GF Diets

✅ No gluten, no problem! The cake mix and pudding are GF-certified.
✅ Naturally moist from the oranges—no dry GF texture!
✅ Dairy-free option works great with coconut whipped cream.

💡 Pro Tips

• Extra fluffy? Add ½ tsp xanthan gum if your GF mix doesn’t include it.

• Lower sugar? Use sugar-free pudding and lite whipped topping.

• Nut-free crunch? Top with toasted gluten-free oats instead of coconut.

This GF Pig Pickin’ Cake is just as crowd-pleasing as the original—nobody will guess it’s gluten-free! 🍊🐖✨

Perfect for: BBQs, birthdays, or anytime you need a sunny, sweet treat!