pig pickin cake recipe
The Best pig pickin cake recipe
The real kicker? It’s actually pretty good for you too. The cake itself is made with whole wheat flour and a touch of honey, which gives it a little extra nutrition without sacrificing all the deliciousness. And the glaze? Well, it’s got a little bit of Greek yogurt in it, which keeps it from being too heavy. My kids have been eating it for years, and they don’t even notice the difference. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a regular Sunday night when you want something sweet but not too indulgent. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and store well, so you can have it ready whenever life gets busy. My kids still ask for it every year around Thanksgiving, and I always make sure there’s a batch on hand. It’s that kind of classic, comforting recipe that just works.
Pig in a Blanket (Pig Pickin’) Cake
A classic Southern-style cake featuring a flaky, buttery dough wrapped around a savory tomato and cheese filling, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
2
In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk and egg until just combined. -
3
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut eight 8-inch circles. -
4
In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce, cheeses, green onions, garlic, olive oil, and oregano. -
5
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, sealing the edges with a fork. -
6
Place the pig-in-a-blanket shapes seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Cutting board
- Oven
- Parchment paper
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flakiness, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling.
- Substitute mozzarella with a mix of provolone and Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Serve warm with a side of pickles or a cool beer.
Watch Video Of How Pig in a Blanket (Pig Pickin’) Cake Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pig in a Blanket (Pig Pickin’) Cake
What is the key difference between a traditional pig-in-the-w Woodland cake and a pig pickin’ cake?
A pig-in-the-w Woodland cake typically features a whole pig figurine embedded in the cake, often with a carved or molded design, while a pig pickin’ cake is usually a simpler, more decorative cake with a pig-shaped centerpiece or a pig-shaped piece of cake (like a slice or a fondant pig) placed on top, often surrounded by greenery or other cake decorations.
How long should I bake the pig pickin’ cake for, and what temperature should I be using?
For a standard 9-inch round cake, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes per layer (for a three-layer cake, this would be about 75-90 minutes total). If your cake is slightly larger or smaller, adjust the time accordingly, checking with a toothpick—it should come out clean. Overbaking can make the cake dry, so keep an eye on it!
Can I make the pig pickin’ cake ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Yes! You can assemble the cake (without frosting) a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Once frosted, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bring it to room temperature for about 1 hour before slicing. For longer storage (more than 24 hours), consider freezing the unfrosted cake layers and assembling it from frozen.
What frosting works best for a pig pickin’ cake, and can I use store-bought frosting?
A rich, buttery cream cheese frosting or whipped buttercream works beautifully for a pig pickin’ cake, as they hold up well to decorations and add a delicious contrast to the cake’s texture. For a more rustic or woodland theme, a simple buttercream with food coloring (green for foliage) can also work. While store-bought frosting is convenient, homemade versions often taste richer and are easier to customize. If using store-bought, ensure it’s stable enough for decorating (like a high-quality buttercream).
How do I incorporate a pig figurine or fondant pig into the cake without it falling out?
To secure a pig figurine or fondant pig, first place a small layer of frosting or fondant around the base of the cake where the pig will sit. For a whole cake, you can use small crumbs of frosting or a tiny mound of buttercream to anchor it in place. If using a fondant pig, press it gently into the frosting and smooth the edges around it. For extra stability, you can also pre-bake a small fondant base to create a platform before adding the pig. Always ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding decorations!
