🍰 Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake – The Southern Dessert That Steals the Show!


 

Looking for a dessert that’s as rich, moist, and unforgettable as your favorite Southern memories? Meet the Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake — a decadent, crowd-pleasing layer cake loaded with chocolate, coconut, pecans, and a dreamy cream cheese frosting.

This beloved Southern staple is a must-have at picnics, church suppers, family reunions, and backyard barbecues — especially in states like Tennessee, Georgia, and Texas. It’s the kind of cake that disappears fast, no matter how big the pan you bring it in.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make the ultimate Pig Pickin’ Cake from scratch , plus share expert tips, variations, and even how to monetize this content if you run a blog or YouTube channel.

Let’s dive into this classic!

🧁 What Is Pig Pickin’ Cake?

Pig Pickin’ Cake is a Southern layer cake known for its dense, moist texture and rich flavor profile. It typically features:

  • A fudgy chocolate cake base
  • A middle layer of sweetened condensed milk and shredded coconut
  • Toasted pecans sprinkled between layers
  • Cream cheese frosting generously spread on top

The name comes from its popularity at pig pickin’ parties , where whole hogs are slow-cooked and pulled apart for sandwiches. But let’s be real — this cake often gets more attention than the barbecue!

It’s:

  • Rich and indulgent
  • Packed with texture
  • Perfect for potlucks and gatherings
  • Easy to customize
  • Always a hit with kids and adults

Whether you're new to Southern desserts or just craving something nostalgic, Pig Pickin’ Cake deserves a spot on your baking list.

🛒 Ingredients You'll Need

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + lemon juice)

For the Coconut Layer:

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups flaked coconut
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

  • Toasted pecans or walnuts
  • Extra coconut flakes
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Chocolate shavings

💡 Tip: For a shortcut version, use boxed chocolate cake mix and premade frosting.

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions



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