Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake!!!

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and beat until fully incorporated.
3. Add vanilla extract and milk (if needed) to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, use a fork or skewer to poke small holes all over the top.
2. Spoon the strawberry syrup over the cake, letting it seep into the holes for extra flavor and moisture.
3. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
4. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top. Add optional nuts or coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.
2. Serve chilled with a big smile—guests will love digging into this fruity, creamy, Southern classic!

Tips for the Perfect Pig Pickin’ Cake

• Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries make a huge difference. If fresh aren’t available, frozen strawberries (thawed) work too.
• Cake Mix Upgrade: For a more homemade touch, use a scratch cake recipe instead of a boxed mix.
• Layering: You can slice the cake horizontally and add strawberries and frosting between layers for an extra indulgent version.
• Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, once all the flavors have soaked together.

Final Thoughts:
The Classic Pig Pickin’ Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration in a pan. Its fluffy cake, sweet strawberry topping, and rich cream cheese frosting make it a crowd-pleaser for barbecues, family gatherings, or any special occasion. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your southern-inspired dessert repertoire!

If you want, I can also make a step-by-step visual guide with pictures for each stage of this cake—it’ll look just like a professional recipe book. It makes it way easier to follow.

Do you want me to do that?