Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

If you’ve ever attended a Southern gathering, chances are you’ve encountered the delightful Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake), a dreamy dessert that captures the essence of warm, sunny days in every bite. This cake features light, airy layers soaked in pineapple and coconut, with a creamy, marshmallow-like frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s no wonder the Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) holds a cherished spot at potlucks and pig pickin’ parties alike, offering a sweet, refreshing charm that feels both nostalgic and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Fluffy Texture: The airy cake layers make every bite feel like a soft cloud, perfect for warm weather desserts.
• Perfect Sweetness Balance: The sweet pineapple and coconut flavors blend harmoniously without being overwhelming.
• Easy to Make: This cake uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Southern Charm: It’s a true taste of Southern hospitality, delivering nostalgia and joy at family gatherings.
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a casual party or special occasion, it’s sure to impress a crowd with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) blends straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create its iconic lightness and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting its moist texture, tropical sweetness, and fluffy finish.

• Egg Whites: Whipped to soft peaks, they give the cake its delicate and airy crumb structure.
• Sugar: Adds sweet richness while helping stabilize the egg whites during beating.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base that forms the cake’s tender yet stable crumb.
• Baking Powder and Salt: Essential for the subtle rise and balanced flavor profile.
• Pineapple Juice: Infuses the cake with bright, tropical notes and adds moisture.
• Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: Provides texture and that unmistakable Southern coconut flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps keep the cake moist and tender.
• Powdered Sugar: Used in the frosting to create a smooth, sweet coating.
• Marshmallow Fluff (or Marshmallow Creme): Creates the classic creamy, fluffy frosting that holds the cake’s layers together.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the natural flavors with warm, aromatic undertones.

Variations for Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

This beloved recipe welcomes personalization, letting you tailor the Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) to your taste buds, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients without losing its signature charm.

• Tropical Twist: Substitute mango or passion fruit juice for pineapple to introduce new tropical flavors.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a dairy-free marshmallow fluff for a vegan-friendly cake.
• Nutty Upgrade: Add chopped pecans or toasted almonds between layers for crunch and warmth.
• Extra Creamy Frosting: Fold whipped cream into the marshmallow fluff for a lighter, silkier texture.
• Fruit Filling Addition: Include fresh sliced strawberries or pineapple chunks between layers for bursts of freshness.

How to Make Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

Step 1: Whip the Egg Whites

Start by beating room-temperature egg whites on medium speed until foamy, then gradually add sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form—this is the key to your airy cake texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution and a light crumb.

Step 3: Fold Ingredients Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg whites in small batches, alternating with pineapple juice to keep the batter moist but airy, and carefully fold in shredded coconut for that signature bite.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter into greased and floured pans, then bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick comes out clean and the cake springs back when lightly pressed.

Step 5: Make the Marshmallow Frosting

Mix marshmallow fluff with softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable—a luscious, creamy frosting that perfectly complements the light cake.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers cool completely, spread the frosting generously between layers and around the cake, finishing with a mound of shredded coconut on top for an attractive and flavorful finish.

Pro Tips for Making Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: They whip better and create more volume in the batter.
• Fold Gently: Preserve the egg whites’ airiness by folding slowly to maintain the cake’s light texture.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is precise, so measure flour and sugar properly to avoid dense or dry cake.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Prevent frosting from melting by ensuring the cake is fully cooled.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the assembled cake rest in the fridge for at least an hour to let flavors develop.

How to Serve Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)

Garnishes

Top your Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) with extra toasted coconut flakes or fresh pineapple slices for a beautiful and inviting look that complements its tropical flair.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads, iced tea, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, enhancing its light and refreshing qualities.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cake in individual mason jars layered with frosting and cake pieces for a charming Southern picnic feel, or plate as a classic layer cake for family-style sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain moisture and freshness for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month; thaw completely before applying frosting.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled cake, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—avoid heating, which can affect the frosting’s texture and flavor.

FAQs

What is Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake)?

Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) is a light, Southern-style sponge cake layered with pineapple, coconut, and a marshmallow-based frosting, known for its airy texture and sweet tropical flavors.

Can I use canned pineapple in this recipe?

Yes, canned pineapple juice and crushed pineapple work perfectly and help keep the cake moist and flavorful.

Is it necessary to use egg whites only?

Using only egg whites creates the signature light and fluffy texture; whole eggs would make the cake denser.

How long does Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) last?

When properly refrigerated, this cake stays fresh for about 3 days but is best enjoyed within 24-48 hours for optimal texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix designed for cakes can work well—just watch the texture during baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Sunshine Cake (Pig Pickin Cake) that makes it a beloved Southern classic—its lightness, tropical sweetness, and creamy frosting come together to brighten any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a family picnic, a holiday spread, or just because you’re craving a slice of sunshine, this cake delivers joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this easy, delicious recipe and experience why it remains an irresistible Southern treasure.

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